NEWARK, N.J. — Timo Meier emerged as the standout player, scoring twice, as Jacob Markstrom’s 26 saves secured a shutout, leading the New Jersey Devils to a 4-0 triumph over the New York Rangers on Saturday. This victory also resulted in the Tampa Bay Lightning gaining their eighth consecutive playoff spot.
Jesper Bratt and Nico Hischier added to the scoreboard, contributing to New Jersey’s third consecutive win, while the Rangers saw their two-game winning streak come to an end.
Following a goalless first period, Meier found the back of the net on a power play at 10:56 in the second period, swiftly capitalizing on a penalty by Sam Carrick. Bratt then extended the lead with a shorthanded goal, his 21st of the season, at 12:23.
Meier added his second goal of the evening at 15:01 of the third period—his 24th for the season. Hischier closed the scoring at 16:12, netting his team-leading 35th goal and assisting twice in the game.
Markstrom’s stellar performance ensured that the Rangers remained scoreless, earning him his fourth shutout of the season and the 24th in his career. The 35-year-old goaltender from Sweden is impressive in his inaugural season with the Devils, with a record of 26-14-6.
A year after topping the league standings, the Rangers are at risk of missing out on the playoffs. They are currently two points behind Montreal, with six games left in the season, while Montreal has seven to play.
The Rangers were unable to convert their two power-play opportunities, continuing a drought with just two goals in their last 43 man-advantage scenarios.
Occupying a solid position in the Metropolitan Division, the Devils are third with 89 points.
Igor Shesterkin, the Rangers’ netminder, stopped 12 shots but faced his 27th defeat in this season, with his record standing at 25-27-5.
Observations:
Rangers: Their road record drops to 18-16-4. Their previous visit to the Prudential Center on December 23rd ended in a 5-0 loss.
Devils: Currently demonstrating strong home performance with a 19-13-5 record, winning four of their last five games.
Pivotal Moment:
Meier’s goal midway through the second period ended the stalemate, as the Rangers struggled to mount an offensive push in the latter half.
Statistical Highlight:
The Devils boast a remarkable record, having gone 34-1-2 when leading after two periods, contributing to their nine total shutouts this season.
Upcoming Schedule:
Rangers: Face the Tampa Bay Lightning at home on Monday.
Devils: Prepare to host the Boston Bruins on Tuesday.