Simon Nemec scores in 2nd OT to lift Devils past Hurricanes 3-2 in Game 3
Simon Nemec's decisive goal in the second overtime secured a 3-2 victory for the New Jersey Devils over the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series. The Devils, who had lost the first two games, managed to cut their series deficit to 2-1 with this win. Nico Hischier and Dawson Mercer scored during regulation, while Jacob Markstrom made 25 saves to keep New Jersey competitive. The Hurricanes' Sebastian Aho and Seth Jarvis contributed to their team's score with power-play goals, but the Devils held on for the win. Both teams had multiple chances in the first overtime, with strong performances from goaltenders Frederik Andersen and Markstrom ensuring the game extended to a second overtime where Nemec capitalized on an opportunity to score.
Simon Nemec scored the game-winning goal 2:36 into the second overtime, lifting the New Jersey Devils to a 3-2 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 3 of the first-round playoff series.
Nemec's play was crucial as he brought the puck up the right side, executing a deke move in the right circle before firing it past the Hurricanes' goaltender Frederik Andersen.
The Devils' victory reduced their series deficit to 2-1 after losing the first two games on the road, offering them a chance to even the series in the upcoming Game 4 at the Prudential Center.
Dawson Mercer and Nico Hischier contributed to New Jersey's score during regulation, with Mercer capitalizing on a rebound situation and Hischier scoring late in the first period.
The Hurricanes managed to tie the game with power-play goals from Seth Jarvis and Sebastian Aho, but despite their efforts, they were unable to secure a win.
Both teams had significant opportunities during the first overtime, with the Devils maintaining an 8-2 advantage in shots, but neither could break through until Nemec's goal in the second overtime.
The Devils faced challenges with their lineup as they got Jonas Siegenthaler back after a long absence but were missing key defensemen Luke Hughes and Brenden Dillon, and lost Johnathan Kovacevic after the first period.