Nico Hischier delivers OT winner, Devils power past Predators

New Jersey's star center scores 42 seconds into overtime to lift Devils over Nashville

Jan. 30, 2026 at 3:15am

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Nico Hischier scored the game-winning goal just 42 seconds into overtime to lead the New Jersey Devils to a 3-2 victory over the Nashville Predators on Thursday night. Dougie Hamilton and Jesper Bratt also scored for the Devils, while Jacob Markstrom made 27 saves. Filip Forsberg and Michael McCarron found the back of the net for the Predators, and Justus Annunen stopped 32 shots in the losing effort.

Why it matters

This was an important win for the Devils, who have been dealing with injuries to key players like Jack Hughes. The overtime victory gives them two crucial points as they look to solidify their position in the playoff race. For the Predators, the loss is a missed opportunity to gain ground in the competitive Central Division.

The details

Hischier's game-winning goal came on a powerful slap shot that beat Annunen. McCarron opened the scoring for the Predators early in the first period, but Hamilton tied it up in the second with a rocket of a shot. Forsberg gave Nashville a 2-1 lead in the third, but Bratt knotted the game at 2-2 with under 10 minutes remaining to set up the overtime heroics.

  • The game-winning goal was scored just 42 seconds into overtime.
  • McCarron scored the opening goal for the Predators just over five minutes into the first period.
  • Hamilton tied the game at 1-1 with 9:59 left in the second period.
  • Forsberg put the Predators back on top 1:34 into the third period.
  • Bratt scored the game-tying goal for the Devils with 9:18 remaining in regulation.

The players

Nico Hischier

The star center for the New Jersey Devils who scored the game-winning goal in overtime.

Dougie Hamilton

The Devils defenseman who scored a goal to tie the game in the second period, extending his point streak to 10 games.

Jesper Bratt

The crafty winger for the Devils who scored the game-tying goal in the third period with some impressive puck-handling skills.

Jacob Markstrom

The Devils goaltender who made 27 saves to earn the victory.

Filip Forsberg

The Predators' star forward who scored his 20th goal of the season to give Nashville a 2-1 lead in the third period.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

This overtime victory was a crucial two points for the Devils as they continue to navigate a challenging season marked by key injuries. The team's resilience and star power were on full display, with Hischier, Hamilton, and Bratt all making important contributions. For the Predators, the loss is a missed opportunity, but they will look to bounce back in their next game.