David Pastrnak scores twice, but Bruins fall 4-3 in overtime to Devils in Newark

Bruins build early cushion, Devils answer late to take overtime decision

David Pastrnak scored twice Monday night, but the Boston Bruins were handed a 4-3 overtime loss by the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center in Newark. The deciding goal came in the final seconds of the extra period, ending a game in which Boston established a two-goal lead in the opening frame but spent long stretches defending in its own end.

Boston opened scoring at 4:02 of the first period on Pastrnak’s first goal of the night, giving the Bruins an early advantage and setting the tone for a high-tempo start. The Bruins added a second first-period goal to take a 2-0 lead into intermission, putting New Jersey in immediate catch-up mode.

Second period swings the game as New Jersey levels it

The Devils erased Boston’s lead in the second period with two goals, tying the game 2-2 and resetting the contest for the third. While the score was even after 40 minutes, the underlying flow tilted toward New Jersey: the Devils finished with a significant edge in shots on goal, 34-22, reflecting sustained offensive-zone time and repeated pressure on the Bruins’ defensive structure.

Special teams did not decide the outcome. Boston went 0-for-3 on the power play, and New Jersey went 0-for-2. The game’s penalty minutes were elevated on both sides (Boston 18, New Jersey 20), but neither club converted those opportunities into a decisive advantage.

Pastrnak completes his two-goal night, but Devils close stronger

Boston regained the lead in the third period, with Pastrnak providing his second goal to make it 3-2. New Jersey responded again, tying the game 3-3 and forcing overtime. The Devils’ ability to answer on the scoreboard matched their broader territorial edge: despite Boston blocking 19 shots to New Jersey’s nine, the Devils continued to generate attempts and push play toward the Bruins’ net.

Game summary: Boston led 2-0 after the first period, New Jersey tied it in the second, and the teams traded goals in the third before an overtime finish.

Overtime ends late as Devils capitalize

In the extra session, New Jersey secured the 4-3 win on a goal scored with 6.2 seconds remaining. Paul Cotter was credited with the overtime winner and was one of the game’s featured performers. Pastrnak, whose two goals accounted for a majority of Boston’s offense, was also recognized among the game’s top standouts.

• Final score: Devils 4, Bruins 3 (OT)
• Shots on goal: New Jersey 34, Boston 22
• Power plays: Boston 0-for-3, New Jersey 0-for-2
• Attendance: 16,034

The result left the teams even in their regular-season series to date, with another meeting scheduled later in the season.