The New Jersey Devils defeated the Detroit Red Wings 5-3 on Saturday night, a result that eliminated Detroit from the NHL playoff race. Jesper Bratt scored the decisive goal late in the third period, capping a game that saw multiple lead changes and sustained pressure from both teams.
Detroit entered the game with postseason hopes still alive, but needed a win to remain in contention. Instead, the Red Wings saw their season end after failing to hold three separate leads. The loss extends Detroit’s playoff drought, which dates back to the 2016 season.
Red Wings Start Strong But Struggle To Hold Leads
Detroit opened the scoring midway through the first period. Justin Faulk broke a scoreless tie with a controlled finish that gave the Red Wings an early advantage. The lead lasted only a minute, as Jack Hughes responded quickly for New Jersey with his 27th goal of the season.
The Red Wings regained the lead in the second period. David Perron scored with just over eight minutes remaining, restoring Detroit’s edge at 2-1. The goal reflected a period of steady offensive pressure, but the team again could not maintain control.
Jesper Bratt tied the game later in the period, continuing a consistent scoring run that has seen him reach at least 21 goals in five consecutive seasons. His equalizer set up another close third period.
Detroit took the lead for a third time early in the final period. Emmitt Finnie scored seven minutes in, giving the Red Wings a 3-2 advantage and another chance to control the outcome.
Devils Respond In Decisive Moments
New Jersey answered again midway through the third. Cody Glass tied the game at 3-3, finishing a sequence that shifted momentum back to the Devils.
Bratt delivered the turning point with 3:34 remaining. On an odd-man rush, he received a pass from Jack Hughes and fired a shot from the left circle. The puck beat goaltender John Gibson, who attempted to recover across the crease but could not close the angle in time.
The goal gave New Jersey its first lead of the night. Dawson Mercer added an empty-net goal in the final minute, sealing the result.
Goaltending And Execution Shape Outcome
John Gibson made 27 saves for Detroit and faced consistent pressure, especially during the third period. He kept the Red Wings in position despite defensive lapses, but the late breakdowns proved costly.
Jake Allen recorded 25 saves for New Jersey. He handled Detroit’s early push and maintained stability as the Devils worked back into the game.
The difference came in execution during key moments. New Jersey converted its chances late, while Detroit could not protect its leads or limit high-quality opportunities.
Playoff Drought Continues For Detroit
The loss carries broader significance for the Red Wings. The franchise has now missed the playoffs for a decade, extending the longest active postseason drought in the league. Detroit had spent much of the season in a playoff position, raising expectations that it could end its playoff drought.
For 148 days, the Red Wings held a spot in the playoff picture. The team showed periods of progress but struggled with consistency late in the season. Close losses and missed opportunities ultimately shaped the outcome.
The organization last reached the playoffs during a long run that included 25 consecutive appearances and multiple championships. The current drought reflects a different phase, with rebuilding efforts still ongoing.
Devils Show Resilience Late
New Jersey demonstrated resilience throughout the game. The Devils responded to each deficit and maintained pressure in the final period. Their ability to generate offense in transition proved decisive.
Jack Hughes played a central role, contributing a goal and an assist. His playmaking set up the winning sequence, and his awareness created space for Bratt’s late finish.
The Devils also received contributions from across the lineup. Glass and Mercer added key goals, and the team maintained composure during the back-and-forth stretches.
Looking Ahead
New Jersey will return home to face Ottawa in its next game. The team will aim to carry momentum from this performance into the closing stretch of the season.
Detroit will travel to Tampa Bay as it looks to finish the season with improved consistency. While the playoff opportunity has passed, the remaining games offer a chance to build toward next year.
The Red Wings leave this game with a result that reflects the challenges of their season. The Devils depart with a win built on timely scoring and steady execution in the final minutes.
