Former Devils goaltender Akira Schmid returned to Newark and recorded a 24-save shutout, backstopping the Vegas Golden Knights to a 3–0 win over the New Jersey Devils on Friday night.
Shea Theodore led the way offensively with a goal and an assist, while Tomas Hertl and Ivan Barbashev also scored as Vegas extended its winning streak to three games following a four-game skid.
Schmid — traded from New Jersey to Vegas in June 2024 — earned the third shutout of his career and second this season, delivering a calm, composed performance against his former teammates.
Devils’ Scoring Drought Continues
New Jersey was blanked for the second straight game, following a 3–0 loss to Dallas on Wednesday, and finished a winless four-game homestand (0-4-0). Jacob Markstrom made 24 saves but received no offensive support.
The Devils shuffled all four lines ahead of the game but sputtered early, managing only five shots in a sluggish first period.
How the Game Unfolded
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1st Period: Theodore opened the scoring with 13 seconds left, converting a feed from Jack Eichel from the right circle to give Vegas a 1–0 lead.
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2nd Period: New Jersey responded with more energy, outshooting Vegas 11–7, but neither side found the net.
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3rd Period:
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The Devils squandered back-to-back power plays, generating just one shot on goal across both opportunities.
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Vegas capitalized instead. With Nico Hischier in the box, Hertl redirected Mitch Marner’s one-timer for his team-leading 12th of the season.
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Barbashev added insurance on another power play, burying the rebound of an Eichel shot with 1:24 remaining.
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Vegas’ special teams made the difference, converting on two late power plays after New Jersey failed to threaten on its own.
Up Next
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Golden Knights: Visit the New York Rangers on Sunday night.
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Devils: Head to Boston for a Saturday night matchup with the Bruins.
