Devils Snap 4-Game Skid As Hischier Shines With 3 Points In Triumph Over Bruins
A Turn for the Better
After dropping four straight games, the New Jersey Devils finally broke out of their slump with a 4-1 victory over the Boston Bruins on Saturday night. Center Jack Hischier led the way for the Devils with a goal and two assists, while goaltender Akira Schmid made 34 saves to earn his first NHL win.
The Devils got on the board first when Hischier scored a power-play goal just 4:09 into the game. Jesper Bratt and Dougie Hamilton assisted on the goal. The Bruins tied the game later in the period when David Pastrnak scored a power-play goal of his own. But the Devils regained the lead in the second period when Hischier assisted on goals by Ondrej Palat and Michael McLeod.
The Devils held on to their lead in the third period, and Hischier added an empty-net goal with 2:05 remaining to seal the victory. The win was a much-needed one for the Devils, who had lost four straight games and were in danger of falling out of playoff contention.
Hischier's Performance
Hischier was the star of the game for the Devils, scoring a goal and adding two assists. It was the first time in his career that he had recorded a three-point game. Hischier was also a force on the defensive end, winning 10 of 16 faceoffs and blocking two shots.
Head coach Lindy Ruff praised Hischier's performance after the game.
""Jack was outstanding tonight," Ruff said. "He was making plays all over the ice. He's a special player, and we're lucky to have him."
Schmid's Strong Play
Schmid made his first NHL start in place of the injured Mackenzie Blackwood, and he did not disappoint. The 22-year-old Swiss goaltender stopped 34 of 35 shots, including several tough saves in the third period.
""I'm just glad I could help the team win," Schmid said. "It was a great feeling to get my first NHL win."
Conclusion
The Devils' win over the Bruins was a much-needed one for the team. It snapped a four-game losing streak and helped the Devils move back into playoff contention. Hischier was the star of the game, scoring a goal and adding two assists. Schmid also played well, making 34 saves to earn his first NHL win. The Devils will look to build on their momentum when they face the New York Islanders on Tuesday night.
