Introduction to the Game
The New Jersey Devils secured a 3-1 win over the Florida Panthers in their home opener on Thursday night. Timo Meier and Nico Hischier scored in the third period, while Jake Allen made 21 saves to lift the Devils to their third consecutive victory.
First Period: Early Scoring
The game began with Evan Rodrigues of the Florida Panthers opening the scoring just 1:59 into the game. He tapped a loose puck past Jake Allen for his second goal of the season, giving the Panthers an early lead.
Second Period: Hughes Ties the Game
In the second period, Jack Hughes knotted the contest with his first goal of the season at 5:48. Assists on the play went to Meier and Jesper Bratt, with the latter earning his 300th career assist. Hughes was limited to 62 games last season due to injury but managed to score 27 goals for the second straight year.
Third Period: Devils Take the Lead
The decisive period saw Timo Meier beat Florida netminder Daniil Tarasov with his team-best third goal of the season at 6:23, snapping a 1-all tie. Nico Hischier added his second goal of the season at 11:47, securing the Devils’ win. Jake Allen won for the first time this season, making 21 saves in the process.
Panthers’ Struggles
The Panthers failed to capitalize on five power-play chances and lost their third straight road game after starting the season with three consecutive home wins. They are currently missing key players, including captain Aleksander Barkov, who is out seven-to-nine months with a knee injury, and Matthew Tkachuk, who will miss at least two months with a torn adductor muscle. Forward Tomas Nosek and defenseman Dmitry Kulikov are also absent from the lineup.
Upcoming Games
The Devils are set to host the Edmonton Oilers on Saturday, while the Panthers will visit the Buffalo Sabres on the same day.
Conclusion
The New Jersey Devils’ home opener was a success, thanks to the contributions of Timo Meier, Nico Hischier, and Jake Allen. The team’s third straight win comes after a season-opening loss at Carolina, and they look to continue their momentum against the Edmonton Oilers. Meanwhile, the Florida Panthers face challenges with key players injured and will aim to bounce back against the Buffalo Sabres.
FAQs
- Q: Who scored for the New Jersey Devils in their 3-1 win over the Florida Panthers?
A: Timo Meier, Nico Hischier, and Jack Hughes scored for the Devils. - Q: How many saves did Jake Allen make in the game?
A: Jake Allen made 21 saves. - Q: What is the status of Florida Panthers’ captain Aleksander Barkov?
A: Aleksander Barkov is out seven-to-nine months with a knee injury. - Q: Who will the Devils and Panthers face next?
A: The Devils will host the Edmonton Oilers, and the Panthers will visit the Buffalo Sabres, both on Saturday.
