Full Breakdown
New Jersey Devils Secure First Win of the Season Against Tampa Bay Lightning
10/12/2025, 1:51:20 PM
Early Dominance Sets the Tone
The New Jersey Devils achieved their first victory of the season with a 5-3 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning on October 11, 2025, at Benchmark International Arena in Tampa, Florida. The Devils established a commanding lead early in the game, scoring three goals within a span of just over five minutes in the first period. Timo Meier opened the scoring at 8:30, capitalizing on a rebound. Connor Brown followed with a goal at 10:17, redirecting a pass from Arseny Gritsyuk, and Nico Hischier capped off the period with a wraparound goal at 13:48, giving New Jersey a 3-0 lead.
Lightning's Response
Despite the early setback, the Lightning showed resilience in the second period. Yanni Gourde scored at 7:31, cutting the deficit to 3-1, and Ryan McDonagh added another goal at 17:22, bringing Tampa Bay within one at 3-2. However, the Devils responded decisively in the third period. Jesper Bratt scored a shorthanded goal at 4:48, extending the lead to 4-2, followed by Brown's second goal of the night just 1:39 later, making it 5-2. Darren Raddysh scored a late goal for the Lightning, but it was not enough to change the outcome.
Key Performers
Connor Brown was a standout player for the Devils, scoring two goals and contributing significantly to the team's offensive efforts. Timo Meier and Nico Hischier each recorded a goal and an assist, while Gritsyuk and Luke Hughes each provided two assists. Jacob Markstrom made 14 saves for New Jersey, while Andrei Vasilevskiy stopped 24 shots for Tampa Bay.
Official Statements & Responses
Tampa Bay Lightning coach Jon Cooper acknowledged the team's struggles, stating, "This is a tough league to go down 3-0," and emphasized the need for better starts. He noted that the team played "more like to lose the game than to win the game." Meanwhile, Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe praised his team's commitment, saying, "To see that type of commitment bodes well for us to build something here."
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the victory, some analysts pointed out that the Devils' power play struggled, going 0-for-4 during the game. Additionally, the Lightning's defensive lapses, particularly in the first period, were highlighted as critical issues that need addressing moving forward.
What's Next
Following this match, the New Jersey Devils will face the Columbus Blue Jackets on October 13, while the Tampa Bay Lightning will look to secure their first win of the season against the Boston Bruins on the same day.
Verbatim Quotes
“It’s nice to contribute early in the season and get it out of the way” — Connor Brown, Forward, New Jersey Devils
“In the first period they came out and tried to get under our skin, but we stayed calm and handled it the right way,” — Timo Meier, Forward, New Jersey Devils
“This is game two of the regular season, and to see that type of commitment bodes well for us to build something here.” — Sheldon Keefe, Head Coach, New Jersey Devils
“We have to set ourselves up for a better start.” — Yanni Gourde, Forward, Tampa Bay Lightning
