NEWARK, N.J. – The Edmonton Oilers, spearheaded by Connor McDavid’s leadership, staged a remarkable comeback in the third period to defeat the New Jersey Devils 6-3 at Prudential Center on Thursday. This victory marked a significant turnaround for the Oilers, who had been grappling with a three-game losing streak.
The game’s turning point came early in the third period, where McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Adam Erne scored within just 1:09 to overturn a deficit and put the Oilers ahead 5-3. McDavid’s wrist shot, followed by Draisaitl’s backhand and Erne’s rush down the wing, demonstrated Edmonton’s offensive firepower. “It’s about taking the chances we get,” McDavid said, reflecting on the team’s explosive performance in the third.
Ryan McLeod’s second goal of the game solidified the Oilers’ triumph with the final score of 6-3. McDavid and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins each contributed a goal and an assist, while Mattias Ekholm and Sam Gagner each had two assists. Goalie Calvin Pickard’s 23 saves were crucial in keeping the Oilers in the game.
Edmonton coach Kris Knoblauch praised the team’s effort, emphasizing the importance of persistence and resilience. “We’ve been working hard, and it’s gratifying to see that effort pay off,” Knoblauch said.
The Devils, despite a strong start, could not maintain their momentum. Dawson Mercer and Timo Meier were among the goal scorers, with Mercer also adding an assist. Michael McLeod had two assists, and goalie Vitek Vanecek made 28 saves on 32 shots after relieving starter Akira Schmid early in the game. However, Vanecek’s efforts were not enough to stave off the Oilers’ third-period onslaught.
New Jersey coach Lindy Ruff expressed disappointment with the team’s performance, highlighting the need for better defensive play and shot blocking. “We need to commit more in the defensive aspects and capitalize on our offensive opportunities,” Ruff said.
The game was also notable for Ryan McLeod’s goal, giving the Oilers an early lead, and Nugent-Hopkins’ quick follow-up. The Devils’ response, led by Mercer and Siegenthaler, set the stage for a competitive match, but Edmonton’s third-period surge proved too much for New Jersey.
In terms of individual achievements, McDavid’s point streak against the Devils continued, as he has now scored in all 15 games he has played against them. Erne, who had been a healthy scratch in previous games, made a significant impact upon his return.
The match was not without its concerns for Edmonton, as forward Sam Gagner left the game in the third period due to an undisclosed injury and did not return.
For the Oilers, this win is a morale booster as they look to build momentum in their season. The Devils, facing their third straight loss, will aim to regroup and address the areas of concern highlighted in this game. As the NHL season progresses, both teams will be keen to build on their experiences from this high-scoring encounter.
