Devils Defeat Kings 3-1 at Prudential Center
The New Jersey Devils secured a victory against the Los Angeles Kings in Newark.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Hockey
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The New Jersey Devils beat the Los Angeles Kings 3-1, highlighted by a third-period tiebreaking goal from Brett Pesce. Arseny Gritsyuk also contributed with a goal and an assist in the win.
Why it matters
This victory improves the record of the New Jersey Devils to 7-4-0, keeping them competitive in the early season standings. Conversely, the result drops the Los Angeles Kings to a 2-5-2 record.
Brett Pesce snapped a 35-game goal drought with his tally at 8:08 of the third period. Devils goalie Jake Allen recorded 12 saves, while Kings netminder Anton Forsberg stopped 23 shots.
The players
Brett Pesce
He is a defenseman who scored the decisive tiebreaking goal in the third period of the game.
Arseny Gritsyuk
He is a forward for the New Jersey Devils who recorded both a goal and an assist.
Jake Allen
He is a professional goaltender who made 12 saves to help secure the win for the New Jersey Devils.
Connor Hellebuyck
He is a goaltender acquired by the New Jersey Devils from the Winnipeg Jets on October 23, 2026.
Anton Forsberg
He is the goaltender for the Los Angeles Kings who recorded 23 saves in the loss.
The details
Anthony Mantha tied the game for New Jersey by weaving through two defenders to score with a wrist shot. Los Angeles saw a potential goal from Trevor Moore waved off due to a high stick, and Arseny Gritsyuk sealed the win with an empty-netter with 1:05 left.
Timeline
October 23, 2026: The New Jersey Devils acquired goalie Connor Hellebuyck.
October 24, 2026: The New Jersey Devils defeated the Los Angeles Kings 3-1.
December 23, 2025: Date of Brett Pesce's previous goal.
Season Trajectory
This win helps the New Jersey Devils solidify their position in the standings following the recent roster move involving Connor Hellebuyck. The result forces the Los Angeles Kings to address their 2-5-2 start as they look to correct early-season struggles.
The victory brings the New Jersey Devils to a 7-4-0 record, providing a statistical boost as they maintain pace in their division. Conversely, the Los Angeles Kings now carry a 2-5-2 record, signaling a need for improved offensive efficiency after having a goal disallowed.
The takeaway
Team depth was a defining factor in this victory, as contributions came from across the roster to overcome an early deficit. Scoring from multiple lines suggests a sustainable approach for the Devils as the season progresses.
Further reading
For more coverage of the league, see Hockey.
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