William Nylander scored his second goal of the game just 1:10 into overtime, lifting the Toronto Maple Leafs to a thrilling 4-3 victory over the New Jersey Devils on Thursday night.
The game marked Devils coach Sheldon Keefe’s return to Scotiabank Arena, his first as a visitor since being let go by the Maple Leafs last spring.
Nylander also added an assist, while Auston Matthews contributed two goals to Toronto’s win. Joseph Woll made 21 saves, and Mitch Marner and Jake McCabe each recorded two assists.
Nico Hischier led the Devils with two power-play goals, and Jack Hughes had a standout performance with a goal and two assists. Jacob Markstrom stood tall with 37 saves but couldn’t prevent New Jersey’s fifth loss in six games.
Takeaways
Devils: New Jersey’s struggles continue, with just one regulation win in their last nine outings.
Maple Leafs: Jake McCabe’s return to the lineup after a four-game absence due to an upper-body injury boosted Toronto. Mitch Marner reached a career milestone with his 700th NHL point, assisting on Matthews’ second goal.
Key Moment
Trailing 3-2 in the third period, Matthews tied the game with a high, pinpoint shot over Markstrom’s right shoulder, forcing overtime and setting the stage for Nylander’s heroics.
Up Next
- Devils: Host the Philadelphia Flyers on Saturday night.
- Maple Leafs: Travel to Montreal to face the Canadiens on Saturday.
