Devils Extend Lead to 4-1 as Gritsyuk, Hischier Open Scoring

Early Surge Sets Tone

The New Jersey Devils established a commanding lead early in their 4-1 victory over the visiting Anaheim Ducks on Thursday at Prudential Center in Newark. The home team’s first period dominance was highlighted by quick strikes from Arseny Gritsyuk and Nico Hischier, who both scored within the opening frame to create a 2-0 cushion before the Ducks could mount a sustained response.

With an attendance of 16,049, the crowd witnessed a game that was largely decided before the second intermission, as New Jersey controlled the tempo and capitalized on key chances.

First Period Highlights

Arseny Gritsyuk opened the scoring for New Jersey with his fifth goal of the season, a tip-in assisted by Jesper Bratt and Jack Hughes. The Devils responded swiftly with their second goal of the night, also a tip-in, scored by Nico Hischier. Hischier’s fifth goal of the season was assisted by Luke Evangelista and Jesper Bratt.

These two early goals set the stage for a comfortable lead, allowing the home team to manage the clock effectively during the remainder of the period. The Ducks struggled to find their rhythm against the Devils’ defensive structure, leaving them trailing by two goals heading into the second period.

Third-Period Finish

The second period ended scoreless, preserving the 2-0 advantage for New Jersey. In the third period, the Ducks finally found the back of the net when Tim Washe scored his third goal of the season with a tip-in. Assists were credited to Jackson LaCombe and Sam Colangelo.

However, the Devils quickly reasserted their dominance. Anthony Mantha scored his second goal of the season with a wrist shot, assisted by Brett Pesce, to extend the lead to 3-1. Jack Hughes capped the scoring with his third goal of the season, a backhand shot with no assists, to seal the 4-1 final score.

The Ducks’ offensive efforts were limited to a single goal, while the Devils displayed depth and consistency across their scoring lines.

Statistical Summary

Jack Hughes finished the game with one goal and two points, leading the Devils in production. Jesper Bratt recorded two assists, contributing to both of the first-period goals. For the Ducks, Tim Washe was the lone scorer with one goal and one point.

Sam Colangelo earned one assist on Washe’s goal. Following the game, the Devils improved their record to 6-4-0 with 12 points, while the Ducks fell to 4-6-0 with 8 points. The performance at Prudential Center underscored the Devils’ ability to build early leads and defend them against a struggling visiting team.

Sources

ESPN