Hischier scores twice as Devils cool off Predators

Bratt has 3 points in New Jersey's win, ending Nashville's 5-game win streak

Mar. 27, 2026 at 2:52am

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Nico Hischier scored two goals, including the game-winner on the power play in the third period, as the New Jersey Devils defeated the Nashville Predators 4-2 on Thursday. Jesper Bratt added a goal and two assists for the Devils, who have won five of their last six games. The Predators' five-game winning streak was snapped in the loss.

Why it matters

This was an important win for the Devils as they look to solidify their playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference. The Predators had been one of the hotter teams in the NHL, so this result could be a momentum-shifter in the tight Western Conference playoff race.

The details

Hischier broke a 2-2 tie with a power play goal in the third period, deflecting a shot from Jack Hughes. Timo Meier added an empty-net goal to seal the win for New Jersey. Bratt opened the scoring for the Devils in the first period and also assisted on Hischier's first goal in the second. Steven Stamkos and Reid Schaefer scored for the Predators, who got 27 saves from Justus Annunen.

  • The game was played on Thursday, March 26, 2026.
  • Bratt has scored in five consecutive games and has 12 points in a seven-game point streak.
  • The Predators' five-game winning streak was snapped with the loss.

The players

Nico Hischier

The Devils' captain scored two goals, including the game-winner on the power play in the third period.

Jesper Bratt

The Devils forward had a goal and two assists, extending his point streak to seven games.

Steven Stamkos

The Predators' veteran forward scored a goal to tie the game at 2-2 in the second period.

Reid Schaefer

The Predators rookie forward scored a goal to cut the Devils' lead to 2-1 in the second period.

Jack Hughes

The Devils center had two assists, including on Hischier's game-winning power play goal.

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What they’re saying

“We knew they were coming off a good stretch, so we wanted to come out strong and set the tone. It was a big two points for us.”

— Nico Hischier, Devils captain

What’s next

The Devils will look to build on this win as they continue their push for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. The Predators will try to bounce back from the loss as they fight to maintain their position in the tight Western Conference playoff race.

The takeaway

This was an important bounce-back win for the Devils, who were able to cool off the surging Predators and pick up two crucial points in the standings. Hischier's game-winning goal on the power play was the difference, showcasing the Devils' ability to win close, hard-fought games against top opponents.