Despite an early 2-0 lead, the Devils couldn’t maintain their advantage, allowing four unanswered goals.
First Period
The Devils began the game with intensity, taking an early lead. Just 15 seconds into the match, Erik Haula scored, finding the top corner of the net. Brett Pesce contributed with a secondary assist, disrupting the Penguins’ initial attack. A few minutes later, Ondrej Palat drew a hooking penalty from Kevin Hayes, giving the Devils a power-play opportunity. Although they generated chances, including a Jesper Bratt shot that led to a scramble in front of the net, they couldn’t convert. The Devils doubled their lead at 6:17 when Cody Glass’s slap shot from the high slot deflected off Palat’s pads into the net. Pittsburgh’s first shot on goal came over seven minutes into the period, with Evgeni Malkin’s attempt saved by Jake Allen. The Penguins’ first goal came late in the period when a Malkin shot deflected off Allen’s skate, and Luke Hughes inadvertently knocked the puck into his own net. Reuters
Second Period
The Penguins started the period with a power-play goal, tying the game at 2-2. Malkin’s shot from above the right circle deflected off Allen’s pad and Valtteri Puustinen before entering the net. The Devils had opportunities to regain the lead, including a power play drawn by Palat and a strong shift by the third line, but couldn’t capitalize. A crucial moment occurred when Brett Pesce took a slashing penalty, leading to a Penguins power play. Sidney Crosby scored the go-ahead goal with 6:39 remaining, tapping in a pass from Bryan Rust. Rust later added an empty-net goal, sealing the Penguins’ victory. Reuters
Third Period
The Devils struggled to generate offense, managing only four shots on goal in the period. They failed to convert on power-play opportunities, including a double-minor for high-sticking, and couldn’t overcome the Penguins’ defensive pressure. Pittsburgh’s defense limited the Devils’ chances, and the game concluded with the Penguins securing a 4-2 win. Reuters
Post-Game Notes
The Devils’ loss marked their second consecutive defeat following a three-game winning streak, bringing their record to 41-31-7 with 89 points. They will look to rebound in their next matchup against the New York Islanders on April 13, 2025. ReutersWikipedia
Reuters