UPDATE: The New Jersey Devils dismantled the Los Angeles Kings 4-1 in a decisive match on October 28, 2023, marking the end of the Kings’ impressive points streak. This victory comes as the Devils bounce back from a two-game slump, showcasing a powerful performance at the Crypto.com Arena.
In a night filled with excitement, Dawson Mercer lit up the scoreboard with two crucial short-handed goals, solidifying his position as a key player for New Jersey. Mercer’s first goal came during a Kings’ power play, bringing his tally to a team-leading seven goals. He capped off his remarkable performance by scoring into an empty net with just 3:48 remaining, marking his second consecutive game with two goals.
Adding to the triumph, Brian Halonen celebrated his first NHL goal, reflecting the spirit of resilience and opportunity in the Devils’ lineup. Halonen, who has battled for a spot on the roster, broke through in his 12th NHL appearance, converting a difficult shot after being called up due to Connor Brown’s undisclosed injury.
Jacob Markstrom, celebrating a recent two-year contract extension worth $12 million, delivered a stellar performance, making a remarkable 42 saves. This was a significant rebound for the Swedish goalie after a challenging game against Colorado, where he allowed eight goals. Markstrom’s sharpness was evident, and he successfully thwarted the Kings until Andrei Kuzmenko managed to score midway through the third period, breaking his bid for a 25th career shutout.
Devils’ captain Nico Hischier also contributed to the scoreboard, ending a seven-game goal drought by tipping in a long shot from Luke Hughes in the first period. The win not only restores confidence in the Devils but also keeps their playoff aspirations alive after a shaky stretch.
The Kings had enjoyed a commendable run with points in seven consecutive games, bouncing back from a shaky start of 1-3-1 to find their rhythm. However, this loss serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of the league and the challenges that lie ahead.
Looking forward, the Kings will face the Winnipeg Jets on Tuesday, hoping to regroup after this setback. Meanwhile, the Devils will aim to build on this momentum as they continue their season.
Stay tuned for more updates as both teams navigate the remainder of the season with renewed focus and determination.
