The Devils are 2-2 against division rivals this season so far, outscoring their opponents, 13-7 in four games against Metropolitan Division clubs.
In the first matchup between the two clubs, Brian Boyle (3G) led New Jersey with three points. Boyle's three goals marked the first time in his 700+ game NHL career that the Massachusetts native recorded a hat-trick, a feat that was accomplished on Pittsburgh's "Hockey Fights Cancer" night. Jamie Oleksiak scored Pittsburgh's first and only goal of the evening, with help coming from Jake Guentzel and Olli Maata.
Keith Kinkaid started against the Penguins stopping 35 of the 36 shots faced in 60 minutes of play. For Pittsburgh, Matt Murray got the start, playing 40:00 allowing four goals on 27 shots faced. Casey DeSmith came in to relieve Murray, finishing the final 20 minutes of play allowing one goal.
The Devils are 4-3-2 at Prudential Center, and 8-8-2 overall against the Penguins since the 2014-15 season.
New Jersey and Pittsburgh's' third matchup will be on January 28th, at PPG Paints Arena.
