Canucks Edge Out Devils in Close Match
In a tightly contested match on Sunday, the Vancouver Canucks narrowly defeated the New Jersey Devils with a score of 2-1 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. The game marked the debut of defenseman Zeev Buium, who impressed by scoring a goal and providing an assist. This was his first outing with the Canucks after being traded from the Minnesota Wild, a move that also included center Marco Rossi, who returned from an injury layoff and contributed solid play in his own right. Additionally, Liam Ohgren, another player acquired in the deal, made his first appearance for Vancouver.
Family Showdown and Player Injuries
The matchup originally generated excitement as it set the stage for a family showdown featuring Quinn Hughes alongside his brothers, Jack and Luke. However, Quinn was dealt to Minnesota as part of a significant trade just two days prior to the game. Meanwhile, Jack remains sidelined due to a finger surgery he underwent in November, which has impacted the Devils’ performance considerably. Since Jack’s injury, New Jersey has recorded only six wins in their last 16 games, highlighting the challenges they have faced without him.
Game Highlights
The Canucks started strong, with Jake DeBrusk netting the first goal just 61 seconds into the game, putting pressure on Devils’ goaltender Jacob Markstrom, who has faced scrutiny for his recent performances. Markstrom had already struggled in his previous game, where he was pulled early after conceding three goals. Despite allowing two in the first period against Vancouver, Markstrom did manage to stop the remaining shots that came his way, finishing the game with a total of 13 saves.
“Luke Hughes managed to score New Jersey’s sole goal in the contest, providing a glimmer of hope for the Devils, who were playing their third game in four days.”
Following this match, the Canucks will continue their five-game road trip on Tuesday against the New York Rangers, while the Devils will embark on their own two-game trek through the West, starting with a matchup against the Vegas Golden Knights on Wednesday.
