The New Jersey Devils wrapped up their Thanksgiving Eve homestand with an electrifying 3-2 overtime win over the St. Louis Blues, extending their early-season momentum and delighting fans at the Prudential Center. Simon Nemec once again proved clutch, scoring the game-winning goal with a one-timer off a perfect feed from captain Nico Hischier. The victory underscores the Devils’ resilience, particularly in high-pressure situations, and highlights the growing contributions of their emerging stars. For more updates and coverage, readers can follow the latest from the New Jersey Devils.
The game began with early opportunities for the Devils. In the first minute, Dougie Hamilton’s shot ricocheted off Blues goalie Jordan Binnington, presenting Hischier with a rebound chance that was stopped, and Timo Meier narrowly missed on a follow-up. St. Louis struck first on their opening shot when Cam Fowler unleashed a slap shot from the boards that beat Jacob Markstrom glove-side. Juho Lammikko had a close call to equalize but was denied by Binnington, and Jesper Bratt’s partial breakaway glanced off the post. Despite multiple early icings, the Devils’ sustained pressure finally paid off as Meier’s one-timer, following a turnover and chaotic front-of-net scramble, tied the game at 1-1.
Shortly after, a Blues power play allowed Robert Thomas to regain the lead with a wrist shot that Markstrom was unable to stop. The period concluded with Timo Meier denied on a breakaway, but the Devils were showing resilience and creating consistent scoring chances.
The second period opened sluggishly for the Devils, but Markstrom quickly reestablished his confidence with a critical stop on Oskar Sundqvist during a breakaway. The Devils then capitalized on their second power play opportunity when Nico Hischier scored a rebound goal to tie the game at 2-2, with Meier and Luke Hughes helping orchestrate the play. Defensive efforts also stood out during penalty kills, with Brenden Dillon and Markstrom combining to frustrate Blues shooters.
In the third period, defensive play became key as the Blues pressured the Devils’ net. Markstrom’s timely saves, including a point-blank stop on Mathieu Joseph, maintained the tie. Despite a chaotic final stretch with both teams exchanging chances, the Devils remained disciplined and prepared for overtime.
In overtime, the Devils seized the momentum. After controlling possession and wearing down the Blues, Hischier set up Nemec for a perfect one-timer, sealing the victory and giving the Devils another clutch overtime win.
Simon Nemec has now tallied five goals and 14 points this season, with multiple game-winners and high-impact performances while taking on top-pairing responsibilities. Nico Hischier continues to impress, contributing to all three goals and displaying strong two-way play in Hughes’ absence. Timo Meier has also been exceptional, scoring in consecutive games and applying relentless pressure along the boards and in front of the net.
While the Devils created a high volume of scoring chances early, consistency remains a focal point. Players like Stefan Noesen and Juho Lammikko have shown flashes, but adjustments in line combinations could optimize their offensive contributions. Nevertheless, the team’s emerging chemistry and ability to execute in overtime demonstrate the depth and resilience of this roster.
With this win, the Devils officially reach the Thanksgiving benchmark atop the Eastern Conference, showcasing the blend of experience, emerging talent, and clutch performance that could define their season. The dramatic victory over St. Louis is yet another example of a team ready to compete at the highest level while thrilling New Jersey fans at every turn.
