The New Jersey Devils defeated the Nashville Predators 4-2 on Mar. 27, led by standout performances from Nico Hischier, Jesper Bratt, and Jack Hughes.
The game was notable for the contributions of the Devils’ key players. Hischier scored two goals, including a late power play goal in the third period that proved decisive after Nashville had erased New Jersey’s initial two-goal lead. Bratt recorded three points and extended his point streak to seven games, while Hughes provided two primary assists and has also earned points in seven consecutive games.
New Jersey established a 2-0 advantage with goals from Bratt and Hischier before Reid Schafer and Steven Stamkos of Nashville tied the game in the second period. Timo Meier added an empty-net goal to secure the victory for New Jersey. The team has now won five of its last seven games and has achieved three wins on its current five-game road trip.
Head coach Sheldon Keefe praised Jonas Siegenthaler’s recent offensive contributions, saying: “Siegs has been playing great. His contributions offensively, joining the rush, sometimes the puck lands on his stick, and he makes a play. Sometimes he’s driving through and creating space for others. I think he’s done a really nice job of that, it’s great to see him get rewarded.”
Predators head coach Andrew Brunette reflected on Jack Hughes’ growth following his Olympic gold medal-winning goal: “Jack’s great. I’m really, really happy for him scoring that big goal… He’s highly competitive. He’s a gamer… He just loves hockey… not surprised he took off after that.”
Looking ahead, Arseny Gritsyuk missed this game due to injury and is expected to be out for at least the remainder of this road trip as well as Sunday night’s home game against Chicago; Evgenii Dadonov filled in during Gritsyuk’s absence.
The Devils will complete their road trip Saturday in Carolina.
