Paul Cotter's OT Goal Lifts Devils Over Bruins

New Jersey edges Boston in a close back-and-forth game.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 7:55am

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Paul Cotter scored the game-winning goal with just 7 seconds left in overtime to give the New Jersey Devils a 4-3 victory over the Boston Bruins. The game was a close, back-and-forth affair, with the Bruins taking an early 2-0 lead before the Devils rallied to tie it in the second period. Cotter's goal came shortly after a near-miss by the Bruins' Charlie McAvoy, as the Devils quickly moved the puck up the ice for the winning score.

Why it matters

This was an important divisional matchup between two teams fighting for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference. The win keeps the Devils within striking distance of the Bruins for the final wild-card spot, while the loss is another setback for Boston in its inconsistent stretch.

The details

Paul Cotter scored two goals for the Devils, including the overtime winner. Jack Hughes had three assists, helping him surpass 400 career points. The Bruins got goals from David Pastrnak (2) and Pavel Zacha, but were unable to hold on for the victory despite outshooting the Devils 34-23.

  • The game was played on Monday, March 17, 2026.
  • Cotter's game-winning goal came with just 7 seconds remaining in overtime.

The players

Paul Cotter

A forward for the New Jersey Devils who scored the overtime game-winner.

Jack Hughes

A center for the New Jersey Devils who had 3 assists, surpassing 400 career points.

David Pastrnak

A forward for the Boston Bruins who scored 2 goals in the game.

Charlie McAvoy

A defenseman for the Boston Bruins who had a near-miss shot in overtime just before Cotter's game-winner.

Jacob Markstrom

The goaltender for the New Jersey Devils who made 19 saves to earn his 20th win of the season.

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What they’re saying

“We must have had a little luck on our side to get that late goal, but the guys battled hard all night and deserved the win.”

— Lindy Ruff, Head Coach, New Jersey Devils

“It's a tough one to swallow, we had our chances but just couldn't capitalize when it mattered most.”

— Jim Montgomery, Head Coach, Boston Bruins

What’s next

The Devils will look to build on this important divisional win as they continue their push for a playoff spot, while the Bruins will try to rebound and get back on track in their next game.

The takeaway

This back-and-forth game highlighted the competitive nature of the Eastern Conference playoff race, with the Devils proving they can hang with one of the top teams in the Bruins. The late heroics from Paul Cotter provided a thrilling finish and kept the Devils within striking distance of a wild-card berth.