NEWARK, N.J. – Jake Allen achieved his first shutout with the New Jersey Devils as the team secured a 3-0 victory over the Utah Hockey Club on Monday night. Rookie defenseman Seamus Casey made a significant contribution by scoring early in the second period, helping his team to triumph for the fourth time in their last five matches. This win follows a disappointing season in which New Jersey did not qualify for the playoffs.
On the other hand, Utah experienced defeat for the first time in four games, having previously celebrated their home opener win against Chicago and subsequent overtime victories against the Islanders and Rangers at the start of their current road trip.
The scoring action began when Casey netted his third goal of the season on a power play just 1:14 into the second period. Stefan Noesen followed up with a goal, assisted by Casey, at 8:13 of the same period. Nico Hischier capped off the night with another power-play goal at 10:13 in the third period. Karel Vejmelka was busy in goal for Utah, making 30 saves during his first start of the season, while Allen recorded 20 saves to earn the shutout.
Key takeaways from the game include the Devils recording their first home win of the season, following their earlier loss to Toronto. They kicked off the season with two victories against Buffalo in Prague and a win on the road against Washington. Meanwhile, despite the loss, Utah’s record stands at three wins out of four, following their relocation from Arizona last spring and retaining the same personnel.
A pivotal moment in the game was Casey’s power play goal early in the second, breaking a scoreless deadlock. The 20-year-old blueliner was selected by the Devils as a second-round draft pick in 2022 and has already accumulated four points in his first five games.
As for statistics, Allen’s shutout marked a significant milestone in his career, now totaling 25 shutouts overall since he was acquired by New Jersey from Montreal late last season. Utah, on the other hand, struggled with their power play, unable to convert on four opportunities during the match.
Looking ahead, the Devils are set to visit the Carolina Hurricanes on Tuesday, while Utah will continue their road trip against the Anaheim Ducks on Wednesday.