A big third period is underway with the #NJDevils looking to extend their one goal lead! #NJDvsBUF pic.twitter.com/BP3yUuDX4L
— New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) January 31, 2018
Taylor Hall and the New Jersey Devils return to NHL action in grand style while beating up ton the Buffalo Sabres.
The New Jersey Devils entered the All-Star break on a four-game regulation losing streak, one of the worst of this season so far. They were in a playoff spot, but only one point separated them from being out of the playoffs and with Philadelphia and Pittsburgh representing the next two games, this 3-1 victory over the Buffalo Sabres on Tuesday night was super important.
Taylor Hall returns to the lineup really led the way. Kieth Kinkaid also made his return to the lineup tonight as Cory Schneider remains out of the lineup.
First Period
In the first period, neither team was able to find the back of the net, and the Devils dominated the pace of play for the most part, although they took two penalties. Just over four minutes into the period Pavel Zacha went off for a hooking call, and the Devils were successful on their first kill of the night. Shortly after that kill, the Devils were buzzing, but that was ruined by a dangerous boarding call taken by Taylor Hall. The Devils were yet again successful on the kill.
Second Period
The second period would bring the Devils their first goal after the break and it was a beautiful one. Miles Wood received a pass from Will Butcher.
If scoring goals is cool, consider him Miles Wood. #NJDvsBUF pic.twitter.com/ZcdIBIQdDM
— New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) January 31, 2018
That was the only tally for either team in the period. Neither team committed a penalty either.
Third Period
Just over five minutes into the third period, Hall continued his MVP-type season with his 18th goal of the season. This put the Devils up two goals and the last time they held a two-goal lead against Buffalo they blew it and lost in overtime. This goal would loom large for New Jersey because with seven minutes left Andy Greene took a penalty which led to Buffalo’s first goal of the night scored by Jake McCabe.
The Devils were not out of the water yet as Nico Hischier made a super rookie move taking an unnecessary cross-checking penalty with 2:45 to go. They would, however, be able to kill it off with the help of Kieth Kinkaid. Kyle Palmieri would add an empty net goal with five seconds left and the Devils would win 3-1.
The Devils next game will be Thursday against the Philadelphia Flyers back at The Rock.
