Jack Hughes scored twice in a dominant opening period as the New Jersey Devils surged past the Dallas Stars 6-4 on Tuesday night. New Jersey overwhelmed Dallas early, scoring four times in the first period and setting the tone for the rest of the game.
The Stars, who recently secured a playoff berth, dropped consecutive regulation games for the first time in two months. Dallas struggled to recover from the early deficit despite strong individual efforts later in the game. The Devils, meanwhile, capitalized on their chances and maintained enough control to close out the result.
New Jersey’s quick start proved decisive. The Devils scored on four of their first five shots, forcing Dallas to play from behind almost immediately. That early stretch disrupted the Stars’ rhythm and ended goaltender Jake Oettinger’s point streak.
First Period Sets The Tone
The Devils wasted little time asserting control. Hughes led the charge with two breakaway goals that exposed gaps in the Dallas defense. His first came during a one-on-one chance, where he beat Oettinger cleanly. His second followed a long pass from his brother, Luke Hughes, that sent him in alone again.
Jesper Bratt and Connor Brown also scored during the opening period. The Devils executed efficiently, turning limited chances into goals. Their puck movement created space, and Dallas struggled to adjust defensively.
By the end of the first period, New Jersey held a 4-1 lead. Oettinger, who had been in strong form, left the game after allowing four goals on five shots. Casey DeSmith replaced him and steadied the situation, but the damage had already been done.
The early scoring burst defined the game. Dallas faced a significant deficit before it could establish its usual structure.
Stars Respond But Fall Short
Dallas showed resilience after the opening period. The Stars tightened their play and began generating more consistent offense. Wyatt Johnston led the response with two goals, continuing his strong season.
Johnston reached the 40-goal mark for the first time in his career. His second goal also extended his league-leading power-play total and set a franchise record. Jason Robertson added another goal as Dallas worked its way back into contention.
Midway through the second period, Robertson’s goal cut the deficit to one. The Stars pressed for an equalizer and controlled stretches of play. DeSmith’s performance in relief helped keep the game within reach.
Despite the push, Dallas could not erase the early deficit. New Jersey answered key moments with timely plays. Each time the Stars narrowed the gap, the Devils responded to maintain control.
Devils Maintain Composure Late
The third period featured another exchange of goals. Timo Meier scored for New Jersey, while Dallas rookie Mavrik Bourque answered to keep the game close. The Stars continued to push but could not complete the comeback.
Dougie Hamilton sealed the result with an empty-net goal late in the game. That final score reflected New Jersey’s ability to withstand pressure after its early surge.
Goaltender Jake Allen made 23 saves for the Devils. He faced increased pressure after the first period but held firm during key stretches. His performance helped preserve the lead as Dallas increased its offensive output.
New Jersey showed improved efficiency and execution compared to recent games. The team converted scoring chances early and avoided extended defensive breakdowns later.
Hughes Continues Strong Form
Hughes’ performance highlighted his recent scoring form. He now has eight goals in his last eight games, a sharp turnaround after a brief drought following international play.
His speed and timing created problems for the Dallas defense. Both goals came on breakaways, showing his ability to capitalize on space and transition opportunities.
Hughes’ production has become a key factor in New Jersey’s offense. His playmaking and finishing ability continue to drive the team’s attack.
Dallas Adjusts After Early Deficit
Dallas showed signs of recovery after the first period. The team generated more shots and improved its defensive structure. However, the early deficit proved too large to overcome.
The Stars entered the game on a strong run and had not lost consecutive regulation games since mid-January. This result exposed issues with slow starts and defensive coverage.
Oettinger’s early exit also impacted the game. DeSmith provided stability, stopping his first 12 shots, but the initial damage set the course.
Despite the loss, Dallas remains in a strong position in the standings. The team will look to address early-game execution as it prepares for the postseason.
Looking Ahead
New Jersey continues its road trip with a game in Nashville on Thursday. The Devils aim to build on this performance and maintain offensive consistency.
Dallas begins a four-game trip with a visit to the New York Islanders. The Stars will look to respond quickly and regain momentum after consecutive losses.
The game underscored the importance of early execution. New Jersey capitalized on its chances, while Dallas spent the rest of the night trying to recover.
