The New Jersey Devils endured a devastating 9-0 loss to the New York Islanders on Tuesday night, a performance described as ‘flat-out embarrassing’ by team captain Nico Hischier. This humiliating defeat underscores the Devils’ dramatic decline from an early-season surge to a team now searching for answers amid a prolonged slump.
Despite outshooting the Islanders 44-24 at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, the Devils failed to score, while goaltender Jacob Markstrom allowed goals on the first two shots he faced and finished with nine goals on 24 shots. Markstrom took full responsibility, apologizing to Devils fans and stating, ‘I’ve got to be better. We put up 40-plus shots, and they put up 20? Scored nine. I’m embarrassed of myself.’ Hischier echoed this, calling the concession ‘flat-out embarrassing’ and emphasizing the need to quickly move past the game, vowing a strong response.
Devils coach Sheldon Keefe made the controversial decision to keep Markstrom in net for the entire game, explaining that Markstrom had been playing well and deserved the opportunity. Keefe added that he was disappointed with the team’s overall performance, particularly the quality of chances given up early in the game. This loss is part of a broader trend, as the Devils have lost six of their last eight games and now sit below the Eastern Conference playoff cut line.
The team’s struggles are stark compared to their scorching 8-1 start to the season, which had them leading the Metropolitan Division in October. Since then, offensive woes have persisted, with the Devils being shut out in five games this season and possessing the Eastern Conference’s worst goal differential at minus-19. The return of star center Jack Hughes from a finger injury in late December has not yet translated into improved results, highlighting deeper issues.
Adding to the frustration, the Devils entered Tuesday’s game after a 4-3 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes, where young defenseman Luke Hughes accidentally scored two own goals. This sequence of events has amplified calls for changes within the team, as players and coaches grapple with consistency and resilience. Markstrom’s apology and Hischier’s leadership underscore the urgency for a turnaround.
Looking ahead, the Devils are scheduled to face the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday night, a critical test of their ability to rebound from this low point. Keefe and his staff must address defensive lapses and offensive inefficiencies to salvage the season. The team’s talent, including Hughes and other key players, offers hope, but Tuesday’s embarrassment has raised pressing questions about their current form.
In the broader NHL context, a 9-0 loss is rare and significant, drawing attention to the Devils’ plight. As the season progresses, their response to this defeat will be closely watched, with implications for playoff aspirations and team morale. For now, the focus is on learning from this experience and delivering a more competitive effort in upcoming games.
