Devils defeat Rangers behind Jack Hughes' hat trick

Olympic hero Jack Hughes records fourth career hat trick, lifting New Jersey to 6-3 victory over New York

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Jack Hughes recorded his fourth career hat trick and second this season, lifting the New Jersey Devils to a 6-3 victory over the New York Rangers on Saturday in Newark, N.J. Hughes, who also had an assist, scored one of the Devils' three power-play goals before converting on a breakaway and scoring into an empty net to complete the hat trick.

Why it matters

The win extends the Devils' winning streak to four games as they continue to battle for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Hughes' performance showcases his offensive talent and leadership, which will be crucial for the Devils down the stretch.

The details

In addition to Hughes' heroics, Jesper Bratt collected a goal and two assists, and captain Nico Hischier and Dawson Mercer also tallied for the Devils. Jacob Markstrom made 17 saves for New Jersey, which rode a 3-for-3 performance on the power play to the victory. For the Rangers, Will Cuylle, Vladislav Gavrikov, and Will Borgen scored, while Jonathan Quick turned aside 29 shots.

  • The game was played on Saturday, March 8, 2026 in Newark, New Jersey.

The players

Jack Hughes

A 24-year-old center for the New Jersey Devils who recorded his fourth career hat trick and second this season.

Jesper Bratt

A 24-year-old winger for the New Jersey Devils who collected a goal and two assists in the win.

Nico Hischier

The 24-year-old captain of the New Jersey Devils who also tallied a goal in the victory.

Will Cuylle

A 21-year-old forward for the New York Rangers who scored his third goal in two games.

Jonathan Quick

The 37-year-old goaltender for the New York Rangers who made 29 saves in the loss.

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What they’re saying

“Jack Hughes is an incredible talent and he showed that again tonight with his hat trick performance. He's been a driving force for us all season and this win is a big boost as we push for the playoffs.”

— Nico Hischier, Captain, New Jersey Devils (Devils.com)

What’s next

The Devils will look to extend their winning streak to five games when they host the Tampa Bay Lightning on Sunday, March 9th.

The takeaway

Jack Hughes' dominant performance highlights his emergence as one of the NHL's elite young stars, providing the Devils with a dynamic offensive catalyst as they aim to secure a playoff berth in the competitive Eastern Conference.