Tyler Toffoli’s timely deflection and a bit of puck luck helped the New Jersey Devils turn things around heading into the holiday break, securing a 3-2 victory over the Detroit Red Wings on Saturday night.
Devils Snap Winless Streak
Timo Meier found the net twice, and Toffoli scored the decisive goal with 7:15 remaining, ending the Devils’ three-game winless streak. Vitek Vanecek made 22 saves, including a crucial stop against Daniel Sprong in the closing moments, as the Devils secured their first win in a five-game homestand.
Key Goals and Efforts
“We knew they were tired, and we wanted to have the best game we could before the break,” Toffoli said. “I thought that’s what we did.”
Toffoli’s game-winning goal, his first as a Devil, came from a deflection of Jesper Bratt’s shot past Detroit’s goaltender Michael Hutchinson, who had 32 saves in his first game with the Red Wings.
“I think it got deflected twice,” Hutchinson said. “It got hit, and it was going to the corner, but it got deflected again. Sometimes they hit you, and sometimes they don’t.”
Red Wings’ Struggles
Patrick Kane and Shayne Gostisbehere scored for the Red Wings, who have now lost five of their last six games. Detroit played without fourth-line center Christian Fischer and defenseman Jeff Petry after colliding in the Red Wings’ zone, sustaining upper-body injuries.
Coach and Player Reactions
“I loved our effort,” Red Wings coach Derek Lalonde said. “It feels disappointing to put in that kind of competition and effort and not get a point.”
Meier tied the game early in the third period with his third goal in two games. His shot slipped between Hutchinson’s arm and body into the net.
“We really wanted to leave the rink tonight with a smile on our face,” Meier said. “These couple days off will feel good to rest up and spend time with family.”
Game Recap
Gostisbehere gave the Red Wings a 2-1 lead midway through the second period. Kane opened the scoring for Detroit just 4:22 into the game, assisted by Alex DeBrincat.
Meier’s first goal came at 11:51 of the first period, knocking in the rebound of Michael McLeod’s shot.
Looking Ahead
- Red Wings: Travel to Minnesota on Wednesday.
- Devils: Host Columbus to finish their five-game homestand on Wednesday.
