Hughes led the offensive attack, while goaltender Connor Hellebuyck turned aside 19 shots to earn his first home victory of the season. The Devils continued their strong stretch, winning consecutive games and five of their last six contests.
Arseny Gritsyuk provided the decisive moment in the shootout, scoring the winning goal to give New Jersey the extra point after both teams battled through an entertaining regulation and overtime.
Connor Brown also found the back of the net for the Devils against his former team. Brown spent two seasons with Edmonton and was part of the Oilers teams that reached the Stanley Cup Final in 2024 and 2025.
Hughes received a tremendous ovation from the New Jersey crowd after his first goal. Fans broke into chants of “USA! USA!” in recognition of his overtime goal against Canada that secured Olympic gold for the United States.
Hellebuyck, who also helped lead the Americans to Olympic glory in Milan, was making his third appearance with New Jersey since being acquired by the Devils.
Hughes Leads New Jersey’s Offensive Attack
Hughes continued to demonstrate why he is one of the most dangerous offensive players in the league. His two-goal performance and assist gave the Devils the offensive production they needed against an Edmonton team that entered the night riding a three-game winning streak.
New Jersey received contributions throughout its lineup, with Brown adding another important goal and Gritsyuk delivering the shootout winner.
Hellebuyck provided stability in net, stopping 19 shots and making several important saves as Edmonton attempted to take control of the game.
The Devils have found momentum at the right time, winning five of their previous six games and showing improved consistency on both sides of the puck.
McDavid Extends Historic Assist Streak
Despite the loss, Connor McDavid continued his remarkable offensive production. The Edmonton captain recorded his NHL-leading 31st assist of the season, extending his league-record season-opening assist streak to 16 games.
Evan Bouchard, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Leon Draisaitl scored for the Oilers, while goaltender Tristan Jarry finished with 31 saves.
Jarry’s shutout streak, which had lasted more than seven periods, came to an end during the contest. Despite allowing four goals, including the shootout decision, he kept Edmonton competitive with a strong performance in regulation.
The game also marked a significant milestone for Nugent-Hopkins. Appearing in his 1,038th regular-season game, he moved past Hockey Hall of Famer Kevin Lowe for the most regular-season appearances in Oilers franchise history.
Edmonton recognized the achievement before the game, with players wearing commemorative T-shirts featuring Nugent-Hopkins and his historic appearance total.
Oilers Dealing with Injury Concerns
Edmonton entered the matchup without forward Isaac Howard, who is expected to miss a couple of weeks with a left knee injury. Head coach Mike Babcock indicated the injury is not considered a long-term concern.
Forward Trent Frederic was a healthy scratch, while defenseman Jake Walman returned to the lineup after missing the previous three games.
The Oilers will now look to regroup as they begin a four-game homestand.
What’s Next:
The Oilers return home Thursday night to open a four-game homestand against the Anaheim Ducks.
The Devils will also be back on home ice Thursday when they welcome the St. Louis Blues to Prudential Center.
Final Score: New Jersey Devils 4, Edmonton Oilers 3 (Shootout)
New Jersey Leaders:
Jack Hughes: 2 goals, 1 assist
Connor Brown: 1 goal
Arseny Gritsyuk: Shootout-winning goal
Connor Hellebuyck: 19 saves
