April, 2025 - Explore New Jersey

Ocean Grove’s Giant Craft Show 2025: A Community Perspective

Each June, Ocean Grove, New Jersey, transforms into a bustling marketplace as the Ocean Grove Giant Craft Show takes center stage.

This year, the event is scheduled for Saturday, June 21, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., stretching along the picturesque Ocean Pathway adjacent to the beach and the historic Great Auditorium.

With over 300 vendors showcasing handmade crafts, jewelry, and artwork, it’s a significant draw for thousands of visitors. FestivalNet

However, for some residents, the influx of tourists and the transformation of their serene town into a commercial hub raises concerns.

🏘️ The Charm of Ocean Grove

Ocean Grove is renowned for its Victorian architecture, tree-lined streets, and a strong sense of community. Many residents cherish the town’s tranquility and the close-knit relationships that define daily life. The annual craft show, while a testament to local artistry and commerce, can sometimes feel at odds with the town’s peaceful ambiance.95.9 The RAT

🎨 The Craft Show: A Double-Edged Sword

The Upside

Economic Boost: The event brings significant foot traffic, benefiting local businesses and artisans.
Artistic Showcase: It provides a platform for artists to display their work to a broader audience.Ocean Plaza Hotel
Community Engagement: The show fosters a sense of community pride and participation.

The Downside

Overcrowding: The sudden surge of visitors can overwhelm the town’s infrastructure, leading to traffic congestion and limited parking.
Disruption of Daily Life: Residents may find their routines disrupted by the event’s scale and the influx of tourists.
Commercialization Concerns: Some feel that the event prioritizes commerce over community, altering the town’s character.

🧭 Navigating the Event

For those planning to attend, here are some tips to enhance your experience:

Arrive Early: To secure parking and enjoy the event before it becomes crowded.
Use Public Transportation: Consider taking NJ Transit to avoid parking hassles.New Jersey Fairs and Festivals+1Art On The Porch+1
Stay Hydrated and Protected: Bring water and sunscreen, as the event is held outdoors.
Explore Beyond the Show: Take time to visit local shops and eateries to support the broader community.

🧵

The Ocean Grove Giant Craft Show is a hallmark of the town’s summer season, blending commerce, art, and community. While it brings vibrancy and economic benefits, it’s essential to balance these with the preservation of the town’s unique character and the well-being of its residents. Engaging in open dialogue and considering all perspectives can help ensure that such events continue to enrich Ocean Grove without compromising its charm.

Sources

Devils Fall to Red Wings 5-2 in Dougie Hamilton’s Return: A Game of Depth and Playoff Preparations

Despite a 5-2 loss to the Detroit Red Wings, the New Jersey Devils showcased their depth and playoff readiness. Dougie Hamilton’s return after injury and standout performances from Daniel Sprong and Justin Dowling highlighted the night.

The New Jersey Devils concluded their regular season with a 5-2 loss to the Detroit Red Wings on April 16, 2025, at the Prudential Center in Newark. While the defeat wasn’t pivotal, the game served as a crucial evaluation of the team’s depth and playoff readiness.

Dougie Hamilton’s Comeback

Defenseman Dougie Hamilton made a significant return to the lineup after missing 18 games due to a lower-body injury . Playing 23:42—second-most among Devils players—Hamilton’s presence was felt both offensively and defensively. His leadership and experience are expected to bolster the Devils’ defensive corps as they head into the postseason.Reuters

Evaluating the Depth

With several regulars resting ahead of the playoffs, the game provided an opportunity to assess the performance of depth players:

Daniel Sprong: Led the team with five shots on goal and was instrumental in creating scoring chances.
Justin Dowling: Displayed strong defensive play and contributed to the team’s overall possession game.
Mike Hardman: Impressed with his physicality and work ethic, earning an assist in his NHL debut.
Nolan Foote: Played a solid two-way game, contributing both offensively and defensively.
Curtis Lazar and Marc McLaughlin: Struggled to make an impact, with Lazar recording minimal ice time and McLaughlin failing to register a point.
Kurtis MacDermid: Appeared out of sync, failing to contribute effectively during his ice time.

Playoff Outlook

Despite the loss, the Devils’ third-place finish in the Metropolitan Division positions them to face the Carolina Hurricanes in the first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs. The team’s depth and the return of key players like Hamilton will be crucial as they aim for a deep postseason run.Reuters

Devils’ Playoff Push and Hamilton’s Return

Reuters

Red Wings top playoff-bound Devils to continue strong finish

Today

Cangiano’s Marketplace Celebrates Five Years of Serving Jersey City with Italian Specialties, Local Flavor, and Community Spirit Since Opening During the Pandemic

Cangiano’s Marketplace marks five years in Jersey City, celebrating resilience, authentic Italian offerings, and deep roots in the local community after opening during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Five Delicious Years: Cangiano’s Marketplace Celebrates a Milestone in Jersey City

In the heart of Jersey City’s bustling Bergen-Lafayette neighborhood, a local favorite is raising a glass—and perhaps a slice of prosciutto—to five flavorful years of service. Cangiano’s Marketplace, the Italian-inspired corner market and deli, is celebrating its five-year anniversary, and for many residents, it’s more than just a store—it’s a cornerstone of community resilience, comfort, and culinary tradition.

Opened in 2020, during one of the most uncertain times in recent memory, Cangiano’s dared to launch a small business amid the COVID-19 pandemic. While many doors were closing, Cangiano’s was opening theirs—offering not just food, but a sense of normalcy, hospitality, and hope.

Five years later, the store is thriving, thanks to the loyal support of the Jersey City community and a deep commitment to both quality and connection.

“We knew it wouldn’t be easy starting a new business during a pandemic, but we also knew Jersey City would show up for us—and they did,” said one of the store’s co-founders. “It’s been incredible to grow alongside this community.”

From Pandemic Uncertainty to Neighborhood Staple

What started as a dream to bring authentic Italian flavors and an old-school market vibe to a modern urban setting has turned into a go-to destination for locals looking for freshly sliced meats, housemade sandwiches, artisanal cheeses, and imported pantry staples.

The market quickly carved out its niche not just by offering high-quality food, but by creating a warm, welcoming space where neighbors could gather—even if it was behind a mask in those early days.

Cangiano’s became more than a grocery store—it became a symbol of how small businesses could adapt, survive, and even thrive through community connection.

Locally Loved and Family-Focused

From day one, Cangiano’s has taken pride in sourcing high-quality products and offering the kind of personalized service that feels like family. Their sandwich counter has become legendary in the neighborhood, with daily specials and made-to-order classics that draw a lunchtime crowd from all corners of the city.

Beyond the food, Cangiano’s supports local vendors, showcases seasonal goods, and hosts community-focused events—from holiday tastings to collaborative pop-ups with nearby small businesses.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Cangiano’s?

As the marketplace steps into its sixth year, the team has big plans to keep innovating while staying true to its roots. Expect new menu items, expanded local partnerships, and even more community engagement.

“We’re grateful to be here five years later, and we’re just getting started,” said the team. “Jersey City is home, and we plan on being part of its story for many more years to come.”

Visit Cangiano’s Marketplace

Located in the historic Bergen-Lafayette section of Jersey City, Cangiano’s is open seven days a week. Whether you’re grabbing lunch on the go, picking up fresh ingredients for dinner, or simply stopping by to say hello, you’ll always be greeted with a smile—and probably a delicious smell wafting from the kitchen.

Here’s to five years of food, family, and neighborhood pride—and to the next five and beyond.

Senator Cory Booker and Rep. Robin Kelly Demand Immediate Action to Restore PRAMS Maternal Health Data Program After CDC Layoffs Halt Tracking of Pregnancy and Infant Outcomes Nationwide

Sen. Cory Booker (NJ) and Rep. Robin Kelly (IL) lead a congressional call to HHS and the CDC to restore PRAMS, a critical maternal health data system, after its suspension threatens nationwide tracking of pregnancy-related health outcomes.

Senator Booker Leads Urgent Congressional Push to Restore Suspended Maternal Health Data Program Critical to Tracking Pregnancy Outcomes in NJ and Nationwide

In the latest push to safeguard maternal and infant health across the United States, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Representative Robin Kelly (D-IL-02) are leading a growing coalition of lawmakers demanding accountability and action after the unexpected suspension of a key federal health monitoring program.

The Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS), a CDC-led initiative that for nearly four decades has been the nation’s primary source for consistent, standardized data on maternal health, was quietly halted earlier this year. Now, the program’s disappearance has sparked widespread concern among public health officials, researchers, and lawmakers who say the loss of this resource could significantly harm efforts to address the U.S.’s growing maternal health crisis.

In a formal letter sent to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Senator Booker and Representative Kelly detailed their deepening concerns following new reports that all CDC staff associated with PRAMS have been laid off, further threatening the future of the program.

“We have an ongoing maternal health crisis marked by rising mortality rates and barriers to access to quality care,” the lawmakers wrote. “The absence of PRAMS jeopardizes the nation’s ability to monitor maternal and infant health trends and inform both broad programs and policies to improve maternal and child health.”

Why PRAMS Matters—Especially for States Like New Jersey

Established in 1987, PRAMS has served as the federal government’s only source of population-level, standardized data tracking the lived experiences of people before, during, and after pregnancy. From access to prenatal care to postpartum support, PRAMS data has informed everything from hospital protocols to community health grants.

For states like New Jersey—which has worked in recent years to address stark racial disparities in maternal outcomes and improve access to maternal care—PRAMS has been an indispensable tool for measuring progress and identifying gaps. Without it, public health leaders are effectively flying blind.

Booker and Kelly’s renewed push follows their initial March 12, 2025 letter to CDC Acting Director Susan Monarez, which went unanswered. Since then, an April 1 report from STAT News confirmed what many feared: the CDC had eliminated all PRAMS program staff.

A Setback at the Worst Possible Time

The suspension couldn’t come at a more precarious moment. The U.S. continues to face some of the highest maternal mortality rates among developed nations, particularly for Black and Indigenous women. Programs and policies aimed at turning those numbers around depend heavily on access to real-time, localized data—exactly the type of insight PRAMS provides.

In their letter to Secretary Kennedy, the lawmakers outlined urgent questions:

Why were PRAMS staff terminated?
Was the decision part of a broader CDC restructuring?
Were states informed in advance of the program’s suspension?
Is PRAMS currently collecting data at any level, and if not, when will it resume?
What plans exist to rehire or replace staff and restore program funding?

The lawmakers made clear that restoring PRAMS in full is not a request—it’s a necessity.

Who’s Backing the Push

The effort is supported by a robust group of Democratic lawmakers deeply invested in maternal and infant health. Co-signers include Senators Tammy Duckworth (IL), Elizabeth Warren (MA), Amy Klobuchar (MN), and Ron Wyden (OR), alongside Representatives Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ-12), Alma Adams (NC), Mike Quigley (IL), Yvette Clark (NY), LaMonica McIver (NJ), and more.

Their collective message: The shutdown of PRAMS is a dangerous step backward at a time when more transparency, data, and targeted public health strategies are needed—not fewer.

What Happens Next

Lawmakers are demanding a formal response from HHS and the CDC, not only to the concerns raised this month, but also to their original March 12 correspondence. In the meantime, researchers and state health departments are left without critical data tools, and maternal health advocates are sounding alarms about the ripple effects of this data blackout.

As the call to action gains momentum, New Jersey’s own Senator Booker continues to center the conversation on equity, science, and the well-being of families—not just in his home state, but nationwide.

“We need to invest in better outcomes, not back away from them,” said a spokesperson from Booker’s office. “PRAMS must be restored, and the public deserves answers now.”

Stay updated on this developing issue and learn more about New Jersey’s efforts to improve maternal and infant health at nj.gov/health.

New Jersey Makes History as 16-and 17-Year-Olds Vote in School Board Elections for the First Time – Newark Youth Lead the Way in Expanding Civic Engagement

Youth at the Ballot Box: New Jersey Teens Make History by Voting in Newark School Board Elections

For the first time in state history, teenagers in New Jersey have officially stepped into the voting booth. In a groundbreaking moment for civic participation, 16- and 17-year-olds in Newark cast ballots in the city’s school board election, marking a significant milestone for youth engagement and democratic inclusion.

This historic vote, held earlier this month, represents more than just a policy change—it’s a cultural shift. Empowering young people with a voice in decisions that directly impact their education and community sends a strong message: the future isn’t just coming, it’s already here.

Breaking New Ground in Newark

The initiative, unique to Newark for now, was made possible through local advocacy and legislative support aimed at increasing student involvement in school governance. While federal and statewide elections are still limited to those 18 and older, Newark’s school board races have now opened the door to the voices of high school juniors and seniors who live with the daily realities of the school system.

For many teens, this was their first taste of democracy in action. And with issues like curriculum design, school safety, funding, and teacher retention on the line, the stakes were personal.

“This is about giving students a say in what happens in their schools,” said a Newark voter who cast her first-ever ballot at just 16 years old. “We’re the ones in the classrooms every day—of course our opinions should count.”

A New Model for Youth Civic Engagement

Newark’s move puts New Jersey on the national map as a leader in youth inclusion at the polls. While a few other cities across the U.S.—including Takoma Park and Hyattsville in Maryland—have experimented with lowering the voting age for local races, New Jersey becomes one of the few states to see such a change implemented in a major urban district.

The effort has been hailed by educators, civic groups, and voting rights organizations as a powerful step forward. Supporters argue that early exposure to voting builds lifelong civic habits and strengthens democratic participation across generations.

More Than Symbolic: A Vote That Matters

Some critics had questioned whether teens would actually turn out if given the chance. Newark’s response? A solid and enthusiastic yes. While full turnout numbers are still being analyzed, early reports show a noticeable turnout among eligible teens—many of whom were educated on their voting rights through schools and community programs.

City officials and advocates are now watching closely to assess the impact of teen voting on future elections and community involvement. There’s growing momentum to explore similar programs in other parts of New Jersey, especially in districts where student voices have long been at the forefront of educational debates.

What Comes Next?

The Newark pilot program could serve as a blueprint for school districts across the state—and perhaps even the nation. Advocates are calling for expanded voter education programs in high schools, streamlined registration processes, and continued outreach to ensure that young people not only can vote, but feel confident doing so.

It’s a new era for New Jersey’s civic life, and it started with a pen mark on a ballot—and a new generation saying: “We’re ready.”

For more information on youth voting rights, local election updates, and how to get involved in your school board elections, visit nj.gov/state/elections or contact your local board of elections. For more information abpout youth in Politics, click here.

Somerset County Honors 40 Nonprofit Organizations with VIP Somerset Patriots Baseball Experience at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater, NJ for 2025 Season

Community at Bat: Somerset County Thanks 40 Local Nonprofits with VIP Somerset Patriots Experience at TD Bank Ballpark

In a heartfelt nod to those who uplift and empower Somerset County every day, the Board of County Commissioners is stepping up to the plate—literally. Forty nonprofit organizations from across the county will soon enjoy a VIP day at the ballpark, courtesy of the Commissioners’ annual TD Bank Ballpark Drawing.

From left, standing on the ballfield at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater: Somerset County Commissioner Paul Drake, Commissioner Deputy Director Melonie Marano, Commissioner Director Shanel Robinson, and Commissioners Sara Sooy and Douglas Singleterry. PROVIDED BY SOMERSET COUNTY — From left, at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater: Somerset County Commissioner Paul Drake, Commissioner Deputy Director Melonie Marano, Commissioner Director Shanel Robinson, and Commissioners Sara Sooy and Douglas Singleterry. – PROVIDED BY SOMERSET COUNTY

Announced on April 15, the recipients of this beloved local tradition will receive 30 tickets each to a Somerset Patriots home game. But that’s not all—these community champions will also be treated to exclusive access to the Commissioners’ private indoor suite, complete with climate control, reserved seating, and a panoramic view of the action.

It’s more than just a day at the ballgame—it’s a thank-you for the vital work these organizations do to serve residents across Somerset County.

“Our dedicated nonprofits provide valuable services and programs that help improve the lives of residents,” said Commissioner Director Shanel Robinson. “We are so grateful to the employees and volunteers who tirelessly continue to serve Somerset County. The ballpark drawing is a way to show our gratitude to those organizations.”

A Field of Dreams—Right Here in Bridgewater

The Somerset Patriots, Double-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, call TD Bank Ballpark home. The Bridgewater stadium has been voted one of the “Best Independent Ballparks” in the country by Ballpark Digest and was named the 2024 Double-A Organization of the Year by Baseball America.

Beyond the home runs and curveballs, the ballpark is known for its festive, family-friendly vibe. Theme nights like Bark in the Park (yes, bring your pup), STEM Education Days, and Sopranos Night featuring Steve Schirripa (a.k.a. Bobby Bacala) give every game a little something extra. Plus, the Patriots will once again take the field as their fan-favorite alter ego—the Jersey Diners—for select nights.

Who’s Heading to the Ballpark?

This year’s 40 honorees include nonprofits focused on everything from health advocacy and hunger relief to arts, education, and emergency services. To be eligible, organizations must serve Somerset County residents directly, with at least half their clients or members residing in the county—or they must provide meaningful service or volunteer support within the community.

Here’s a snapshot of the 2024 winners:

Arc of Somerset County, Manville
CASA SHaW, Lebanon
Community in Crisis, Bernardsville
Food Bank Network of Somerset County, Bound Brook
Hillsborough Seniors Chapter A, Hillsborough
Norwescap, Phillipsburg
Somerville Rescue Squad, Somerville
Watchung Arts Center, Watchung
And many more representing every corner of the county.

Celebrating Community, One Inning at a Time

While the Somerset Patriots began their 2025 season with an away game on April 4, excitement is building for the summer lineup of home games in Bridgewater. Thanks to the Commissioners’ initiative, each of the 40 selected organizations will enjoy a day of fun, relaxation, and recognition in a space designed to celebrate their efforts.

In a time when community connection matters more than ever, this gesture reminds us that local government and local heroes can—and should—cheer for each other.

For the full game schedule or to learn more about Somerset County’s community programs, visit www.somersetcountynj.gov or somersetpatriots.com.

Ciattarelli’s Internal Poll Shows Dominant Position in NJ GOP Primary as June 10 Approaches

As the countdown continues to New Jersey’s Republican Primary on June 10, 2025, a new internal poll from Jack Ciattarelli’s campaign suggests the former gubernatorial candidate remains firmly in the driver’s seat.

With just weeks to go, the numbers—at least according to Ciattarelli’s own team—indicate that the race for the GOP nomination isn’t shaping up to be much of a contest. While it’s always smart to take internal polling with a grain of salt, especially in the early spring stretch of election season, traditional metrics like name recognition, favorability, and fundraising do seem to support the narrative: Ciattarelli is comfortably ahead.

So, is the primary race already decided? Not officially. But if these early indicators hold, any challenger hoping to tighten the margins will need to make a major move, and fast.

While the broader GOP field in New Jersey continues to shape itself for future elections, Ciattarelli’s consistent presence from his previous statewide runs—and the infrastructure he built along the way—may be giving him a solid edge before most voters even head to the polls.

Keep an eye on how things evolve as June draws closer. Politics in the Garden State has a history of last-minute surprises—but for now, Ciattarelli appears to be running unopposed in all but name.

For official election dates, polling info, and to stay up to date on the latest in NJ politics, visit the New Jersey Division of Elections website.

Don’t Miss Middletown Arts Center’s May 2025 MAC Music Cafe Featuring Gabrielle Lea, Carol Lester, Keith Monacchio, and Mark Healy – Free Live Singer-Songwriter Showcase in New Jersey

Looking for an inspiring way to spend your Sunday afternoon? The MAC Music Cafe at Middletown Arts Center returns on Sunday, May 4, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM with a stellar lineup of local singer-songwriters you won’t want to miss.

This month’s free live showcase features heartfelt performances by Gabrielle Lea, Carol Lester, Keith Monacchio, and Mark Healy—four distinct voices that bring powerful lyrics, emotional storytelling, and acoustic soul to the stage. Whether you’re a longtime fan of New Jersey’s vibrant music scene or simply love discovering fresh talent, this event offers a cozy, welcoming vibe perfect for all ages.

The MAC Music Cafe is a monthly series that spotlights both up-and-coming and seasoned singer-songwriters, turning the Middletown Arts Center into an intimate listening room for one Sunday each month. Admission is free, and there’s a suggested $5 donation to help support the center’s continued programming and community outreach.

Bring a friend, sip something warm, and let the music move you. Located in the heart of Monmouth County, the Middletown Arts Center continues to serve as a cultural hub for creativity and connection in New Jersey.

For more information and directions, visit Middletown Arts Center’s official website.

Discover Trivia Night Fun at Brewery Thirty-Three in Riverton, NJ – Biweekly Wednesday Night Games, Craft Beer Specials, and NJCB Discounts

Join the excitement at Brewery Thirty-Three in Riverton, NJ for Trivia Night every other Wednesday from 7–9 PM. Enjoy laughs, craft brews, and NJCB member perks in a revamped trivia format!

Game On: Trivia Night Returns to Brewery Thirty-Three with a Fresh Twist

If you’re looking to spice up your midweek plans, Brewery Thirty-Three in Riverton has the perfect answer. Kicking off a brand-new trivia format, their popular Trivia Night returns starting February 5th and will continue every other Wednesday from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Hosted at their laid-back taproom at 601 Lippincott Avenue, this event promises two hours packed with brain-teasing questions, plenty of laughs, and some friendly competition. Whether you’re a seasoned trivia buff or just looking to have a good time with friends, this is your chance to show off your smarts over a pint of expertly crafted beer.

Tommy from Brewery Thirty-Three shared that the revamped Trivia Night comes with new themes, updated challenges, and interactive fun that’ll keep you coming back every other week. And there’s more reason to swing by if you’re a New Jersey Craft Beer (NJCB) Member—members score 10% off their bar tabs, making it even easier to enjoy the night without breaking the bank.

Mark your calendar, gather your team, and get ready to tap into the fun. For all the latest updates and details, visit Brewery Thirty-Three’s website.

Brian Dumoulin’s Overtime Heroics Lift Devils Past Bruins in Wild One at TD Garden

On a chilly Tuesday evening in Boston, the New Jersey Devils suited up for their penultimate regular season matchup, squaring off against the Bruins in a game that, on paper, had the makings of a quiet tune-up. But what unfolded at TD Garden was anything but subdued. With playoff spots locked and stakes technically low, both teams turned in a spirited, back-and-forth effort that ended with Brian Dumoulin playing unexpected hero. His first goal as a Devil couldn’t have come at a better moment—an overtime snipe that sealed a dramatic 5-4 win and gave New Jersey a much-needed jolt of momentum.

From Afterthought to Overtime Star

Dumoulin, acquired from Anaheim at the trade deadline, hadn’t scored since donning the red and black. But when he picked his spot in OT and fired the puck past Jeremy Swayman, he etched his name into one of the more memorable moments of the Devils’ season. Few would have pegged Dumoulin as the difference-maker on a roster packed with offensive talent, but that’s the beauty of late-season hockey: sometimes, it’s the unexpected guys who steal the show.

Paired once again with Johnny Kovacevic on the blue line, Dumoulin also delivered a steady, no-frills performance in his own zone, keeping Boston’s high-octane forwards honest while his teammates carried the load on the scoreboard.

Goal Parade: Meier, Noesen, Nemec, and Mercer Light the Lamp

Four different Devils found twine before Dumoulin’s winner, each goal arriving via a unique route. Timo Meier kicked off the scoring by walking off the wing and ripping a laser past Swayman. Stefan Noesen followed by capitalizing on a chaotic power play scramble, sweeping in a loose puck. Simon Nemec rifled one off a clean faceoff win, his shot grazing the blocker but still finding net. And Dawson Mercer, one of New Jersey’s most versatile forwards, redirected a pinpoint pass from Nico Hischier on the man advantage.

It was an encouraging offensive outburst for a squad that’s struggled to finish in 2025. The timing couldn’t have been better, even if the Bruins had nothing left to play for this season.

A Rough Night for Jake Allen Between the Pipes

While the Devils’ skaters brought the heat, goaltender Jake Allen turned in a performance he’d likely rather forget. Natural Stat Trick pinned Boston’s four goals to just 2.31 expected, a sign that Allen let in more than he should have. A couple of the early tallies—like Morgan Geekie’s one-timer and David Pastrnak’s partial breakaway—were borderline, but the final two were soft. Rookie John Farinacci beat Allen while falling away from the net. Then Marat Khusnutdinov tied it up on a one-timer after Fabian Lysell made Brenden Dillon look silly on the forecheck.

Still, Allen did just enough to get the Devils to overtime—and that’s when Dumoulin finished the job.

Injuries Mount: Palat Out, Cotter Suspended

The win didn’t come without a price. Forward Ondrej Palat blocked a shot in the first period and left the ice visibly shaken. Though he finished the shift, he didn’t return and logged just under three minutes. This came one game after Paul Cotter’s ejection and subsequent suspension for a headshot on the Islanders’ Adam Pelech.

Head coach Sheldon Keefe shared a post-game update, saying Palat’s X-rays were negative—but he won’t suit up for the regular season finale.

While Palat hasn’t exactly been lighting the world on fire this year, his absence will be felt in the playoffs. He’s still one of the more seasoned and dependable forwards on the roster, and the Devils can’t afford to be down bodies as they prepare for the Hurricanes.

Welcome to the Show: Marc McLaughlin’s Devils Debut

Filling in for Cotter, Marc McLaughlin made his Devils debut against his former team. And while he didn’t light up the stat sheet, he made a quick impact. His clean faceoff win set up Nemec’s goal, earning him his first career assist. Aside from that, his 8:50 of ice time included three hits but little else in terms of offensive spark. Still, it was a promising debut, and with Palat out and Cotter still suspended, McLaughlin will likely get another shot in the finale.

Signs of Life from Nemec

Nemec’s season has been an uphill climb after an offseason injury and some growing pains adapting to a new system. But in Boston, he looked like a guy on the rise. With a 68.81% expected goals share (according to NST) and one of the night’s top game scores for Devils defensemen (per Hockey Stat Cards), he was sharp and assertive. He didn’t have a perfect game—he could’ve done more on Khusnutdinov’s goal—but the progress is hard to ignore.

Nemec is a cornerstone of this team’s future, and if he’s finding his form now, it’s coming at the right time.

A Weird Streak Lives On

For the second straight season, the Devils will end their campaign without a single four-game winning streak. That’s not easy to do—especially for a team with this much skill. Their longest win stretch remains at three, a number that underscores how wildly inconsistent this season has been. Maybe 2025-26 is the year that changes. Devils fans can only hope.

Looking Ahead

Next up: the final regular season game, a Wednesday night clash against the Detroit Red Wings back home in New Jersey. Puck drops at 7:30pm. With playoff hockey around the corner, this one might serve as a final tune-up—or a dress rehearsal for a team still ironing out its lines.

What’s Your Take?

Did Dumoulin’s winner pump some confidence back into the locker room? How worried are you about the goaltending heading into round one? And what are your expectations for the final game of the season?

We’ll be following every shift, every injury update, and every playoff storyline. Stay tuned to Explore New Jersey for more Devils coverage as we head toward the postseason.

Explore New Jersey

Monthly Archives: April 2025