NEW YORK — In an exciting overtime finish, Sam Carrick netted the game-winning goal, leading the New York Rangers to a 3-2 victory over the New Jersey Devils on Thursday evening. Igor Shesterkin had an impressive performance, registering 21 saves in the match.
Carrick’s pivotal goal came just 2:48 into the extra period, showcasing his quick reaction to a pass from teammate Reilly Smith, which he converted past Devils goalie Jacob Markstrom. This marked Carrick’s third goal of the season, providing the Rangers with a crucial home win prior to embarking on a three-game road trip.
In addition to Carrick’s contribution, the Rangers also saw goals from Adam Fox and Artemi Panarin, as they celebrated their second win in the last three matchups. On the opposing side, Jesper Bratt and Jack Hughes managed to find the back of the net for the Devils, who have struggled, suffering five losses in their last six games.
The game started with Fox scoring on a power play at 12:05 of the first period. Hughes equalized with his 16th goal of the season early in the second period, and shortly after, Bratt pushed New Jersey ahead at 8:28 with a powerful shot, marking his 15th goal and earning Hughes his team-leading 50th point this season.
However, the Rangers responded with a goal from Panarin, who tied the game with his team-leading 17th tally on another power play at 17:13 in the second frame, with assists from both Fox and Mika Zibanejad. Markstrom concluded the game with 29 saves for the Devils.
Matt Rempe of the Rangers made his return after an eight-game suspension and played 7:47 minutes without incurring any penalties throughout his 11 shifts during the match.
Key outcomes from the game included the Rangers boosting their home record to 9-10-2, achieving their first overtime victory of the season. For the Devils, Hughes continued his impressive streak against the Rangers, accumulating five goals and three assists in three games this season, and he currently leads the team with a total of 50 points, slightly ahead of Bratt.
A critical moment in the game came when Shesterkin denied Dawson Mercer during a short-handed breakaway with just over nine minutes remaining in the third period, preserving a crucial moment for the Rangers.
Shesterkin’s return to the ice, following a stint on the injured reserve, saw him improve to 12-15-1, marking his first win since December 20 against Dallas. Panarin continues to be a cornerstone for the Rangers, leading the team with 44 points and having made contributions in 28 of his 39 games this season.
Looking ahead, the Rangers will face off against the Vegas Golden Knights on Saturday night, while the Devils are set to host the Tampa Bay Lightning on the same evening.
