Stellar Performance from Stefan Noesen Powers New Jersey Devils to a 6-2 Triumph Over Anaheim Ducks
Second Period Scoring Surge Propels Devils to Victory
Sunday’s NHL showdown saw Stefan Noesen net a pair of goals in the second period, setting the stage for the New Jersey Devils’ resounding 6-2 victory over the Anaheim Ducks. Adding to the Devils’ onslaught were Jack Hughes, Paul Cotter, Nico Hischier, and Erik Haula, each finding the back of the net. Jacob Markstrom, the Devils’ goaltender, successfully staved off 24 attempts from the Ducks, playing a crucial role in the Devils’ second home win at the Prudential Center this season.
Hughes and Noesen Spark Devils’ Offensive Explosion
After Brock McGinn of Anaheim opened the scoreline in the first period, Hughes quickly settled the score 1:15 into the second period. Noesen then steered the Devils (6-4-2) to a 2-1 lead at 4:42 in the second period, and later widened the margin with a power play goal with 2:37 remaining in the same period. Cotter’s goal with just over a minute left in the second period further bolstered the Devils’ stronghold.
Hischier and Haula Seal the Deal in the Third Period
New Jersey’s Hischier, the team’s top scorer this season, netted his ninth goal early into the third period, making it a 5-1 game. Haula’s goal at even strength in the dying moments of the game was the final nail in the coffin for the Ducks. Despite a third-period goal from Ryan Strome and 28 saves from goaltender James Reimer, Anaheim (3-4-1) couldn’t recover from their deficit.
Takeaways from the Game
The Devils seem to be finding their groove, securing their second win in six games at Prudential Center this season. This comes on the back of two victories against Buffalo in Prague, with the second win counted as a home game for the Devils. On the other hand, the Ducks appear to be slipping after a promising 2-1-1 start to the season, losing three of their last four games.
Key Moments and Statistics
Noesen’s first goal, which broke the 1-1 tie and set the Devils on the path to victory, was undoubtedly a game-changing moment. The 31-year-old forward now boasts five goals this season. Jonas Siegenthaler, Dougie Hamilton, and Dawson Mercer each contributed two assists, while Jesper Bratt of the Devils extended his assist streak to five games.
What’s Next?
The Devils will embark on a three-game trip to Western Canada, starting with the Canucks on Wednesday. The Ducks, on the other hand, will face off against the Islanders on Tuesday.