Devils Surge Past Ducks 4-1 Behind Hughes and Gritsyuk

Opening Period Dominance

The New Jersey Devils established control early at the Prudential Center, securing a 4-1 victory over the visiting Anaheim Ducks on Thursday, October 22, 2026. The game’s pivotal moment arrived in the opening frame when two quick tip-in goals shifted the momentum decisively toward Newark.

Arseny Gritsyuk broke the deadlock first, converting a tip-in for his fifth goal of the season. Jesper Bratt provided the primary assist, with Jack Hughes adding the secondary mark, making the score 1-0. Shortly thereafter, Nico Hischier doubled the advantage with a similar tip-in finish, marking his fifth tally.

Luke Evangelista and Bratt shared credit on that second goal, extending New Jersey’s lead to 2-0 before the first intermission.

Defensive Stand and Late Explosion

The middle period remained scoreless as both goaltenders stifled offensive opportunities, keeping the Devils’ two-goal cushion intact. The third period began with Anaheim attempting to chip away at the deficit. Tim Washe found the back of the net for the Ducks, his third goal of the year, assisted by Jackson LaCombe and Sam Colangelo.

The goal made it 2-1, injecting brief life into the visiting squad’s hopes.

However, New Jersey responded almost immediately to silence any potential comeback. Anthony Mantha restored the two-goal margin with a wrist shot, his second goal of the season, powered by an assist from Brett Pesce. Jack Hughes then capped the scoring with a backhand finish, marking his third goal and second point of the night.

This final tally sealed the 4-1 outcome, leaving Anaheim unable to generate further offense.

Statistical Leaders and Final Standings

Jack Hughes was the standout performer for New Jersey, recording two points on one goal and one assist. Jesper Bratt also contributed significantly with two assists. For Anaheim, Tim Washe led the offensive output with one goal and one point, while Sam Colangelo added an assist.

The win improves the Devils’ record to 6-4-0, earning them 12 points in the standings. The loss drops the Ducks to 4-6-0, leaving them with 8 points. The game was played in front of 16,049 spectators at the Prudential Center.

Sources

ESPN