The New Jersey Devils came into game 82 tied for the most wins in franchise history at 51. They also had a chance to win the Metropolitan Division but they needed help from the Florida Panthers and they didn’t get it. It was obvious that the Devils weren’t winning the division late in that game.
It also seemed like they were going to lose game 82 when they were down 4-1. However, they got things all square at four to force overtime against the Washington Capitals.
In the overtime period, the ending made it become the best Devils game of the entire 2022-23 season. For one, the win gave them their 52nd which is something they have never done in franchise history.
It was also the first career goal scored by Luke Hughes and it came as the overtime game-winner. The goal was even more special because it was assisted by his brother Jack Hughes which got him to 99 points on the season. It was also assisted by captain Nico Hischier to get him to 80.
The New Jersey Devils put on a show in the final game of 2022-23.
This is truly a moment in team history that will be remembered forever. It was the top prospect who just so happens to be the little brother of the team’s leading scorer putting a bow on the winningest season in franchise history.
It also made some NHL history as well because the team did 49 points better than a season ago which is the greatest turnaround in NHL history. They literally had the second overall pick in 2022-23 and now they are a Stanley Cup contender.
New Jersey will play the New York Rangers in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs as a result of the events that took place on Thursday.
Everything went right for the Devils this season and it was so fun to watch all year long. The fact that they are in year one of their competitive window that may last a decade is very fun to know. With guys like Jack Hughes, Luke Hughes, and Nico Hischier leading the way, it should be amazing.
As great as this season finale was for New Jersey, it is time for chapter two of the 2022-23 season. The New York Rangers are going to be tough to beat so we will see just how ready for the postseason the Devils are starting on Tuesday.