Devils 3, Oilers 2: String 'em together

The Devils have put together three straight victories for the first time in 2025.

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The New Jersey Devils were able to grind out a victory over the Edmonton Oilers, putting together their first three-game winning streak since December.

Here are a few observations from the game:

Jesper Bratt took over 😈

One thing I really like about Sheldon Keefe’s decision to pull Jesper Bratt off the top unit is that it frees the most dynamic player in the lineup to get more ice away from top competition. It paid off in spades Thursday night.

The Devils scored three goals with Bratt on the ice at 5v5, all of which he factored in on.

Here’s who those goals came against:

D - Ty Emberson (3)
D - Brett Kulak (2)
D - Troy Stecher (1)
F - Connor Brown, Vasily Podkozlin (2)
F - Adam Henrique, RNH, Kasperi Kapanen, Corey Perry, Max Jones (1)

Notice anything? I do! Nothing came against Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Zach Hyman, Evan Bouchard, or any of Edmonton’s elite players.

Bratt had some shifts against those guys, of course, but by taking Bratt off the top line and giving Nico Hischier’s unit the toughs, No. 63 was able to get a lot more time against lesser players than he otherwise would. And he took full advantage.

Bratt produced three points on three goals while also leading the team with 10 primary shot contributions during 5v5 play.

He had the puck a ton, he created a lot of opportunities, and he was rewarded on the scoreboard.

While depth obviously matters, games are generally won or lost by your best players. Bratt was the most impactful player on the ice and the difference in the game.

Jake Allen shines again ☀️