Toronto Maple Leafs center Auston Matthews celebrated after scoring the decisive shootout goal during an NHL game against the New Jersey Devils on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, in Newark, New Jersey. The dramatic finish secured a victory for Toronto. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Auston Matthews delivered a thrilling overtime goal, propelling the Toronto Maple Leafs to a hard-fought 2-1 win over the New Jersey Devils on Tuesday night in Newark. With just over two minutes remaining in overtime, Matthews seized a loose puck at centre ice, outpaced Devils defenseman Brett Pesce, and fired a shot past Jacob Markstrom’s glove for his ninth goal.
The victory was a comeback effort, with Toronto tying the game late in regulation. Pontus Holmberg scored a crucial short-handed goal at 10:42 of the third period, levelling the score 1-1. Earlier in the game, the Devils had taken the lead in the second period when Ondrej Palat netted his first goal since November 12, assisted by Jesper Bratt. Bratt, in strong form, has racked up 10 points in New Jersey’s last six games.
Toronto’s goaltender, Anthony Stolarz, was instrumental in the win, stopping an impressive 37 shots. On the other end, Markstrom faced significantly less pressure, making 11 saves for the Devils.
Game Insights
The Maple Leafs struggled offensively in the opening period, managing only one shot on goal compared to the Devils' 15. Despite dominating early, New Jersey couldn’t capitalize on their opportunities, including two short-handed attempts. The Devils, who currently boast the NHL's top power-play unit, have hit a rough patch, going 0-for-9 in power-play chances over their last three games.
Toronto’s star forward Mitch Marner saw his road point streak end at eight games (four goals, nine assists). It marked the second-longest active streak behind Tampa Bay’s Victor Hedman, who has scored 13 points in 10 consecutive road games. Marner’s record-breaking 14-game streak last season remains the benchmark for the Leafs.
Looking Ahead
Both teams will be back on home ice for their next games. The Maple Leafs will host the Anaheim Ducks on Thursday, while the Devils are set to face the Los Angeles Kings.
