Michael McLeod scored a pivotal goal late in the second period, reclaiming the lead for the New Jersey Devils and setting the stage for a 6-3 win over the Washington Capitals on Wednesday night. This victory highlighted the young team’s resilience.
Key Moments
Less than a minute after the Capitals tied the game, McLeod forced a turnover, skated to the net, and scored on a spinning backhand shot. McLeod, Nico Hischier, and Dawson Mercer each scored two goals for the Devils. Hischier also recorded an assist, putting in a stellar performance on the eve of his 25th birthday.
“There’s ups and downs in games, and I think sometimes we get too down,” said McLeod, who sealed the win with his second goal in the third period. “Them tying it up and then us getting that goal and coming out in the third as we did, that’s what we want to see.”
Outstanding Performances
Mercer, playing his 200th consecutive NHL game, praised Hischier’s leadership and consistent play. “He had a great game,” Mercer said. “He plays the same way every night. He’s a great captain, and he really just showed that out there.”
Nico Daws made 23 saves, securing his second victory in two games since his call-up last month. The Devils have won four out of their last five games, even without key forwards Timo Meier and Ondrej Palat. Coach Lindy Ruff mentioned that Palat, a surprise scratch due to a lower-body injury, is being evaluated and will likely miss a few more games.
Team Resilience
Despite their absences, the Devils have found consistency and moved into an Eastern Conference wild-card spot, overtaking Washington. “Everyone’s got to step up to the plate,” Mercer said. “It’s a hard game out there, hard-fought, and it’s good for us here to step up, play the part and help our team win out there.”
Capitals’ Struggles
Evgeny Kuznetsov, Connor McMichael, and John Carlson scored for the Capitals. Kuznetsov ended a 10-game point and 11-game goal-scoring drought. Hunter Shepard, starting the second game of a back-to-back, allowed six goals on 26 shots. Alex Ovechkin extended his point streak to three games with two assists, but the Capitals have now lost five of their last six games.
“Just too many mistakes and not enough push at the end,” Capitals coach Spencer Carbery said. “You’ve got to give them credit. They’re a young, fast-skating team, so in that third period, that really took over.”
Pacioretty’s Return
Veteran forward Max Pacioretty made his Capitals debut, playing his first NHL game nearly a year after re-tearing his right Achilles tendon. “A lot of emotions, but at the end of the day, probably couldn’t get any worse than it did for me,” Pacioretty said. “Got to get better from it.”
Upcoming Games
- Devils: Host Chicago on Friday.
- Capitals: Host Carolina on Friday.
