Islanders blow late lead and fall to Devils on Jack Hughes’ OT goal

The New York Islanders suffered a 5-4 overtime defeat against the New Jersey Devils after surrendering a late lead at UBS Arena. Jack Hughes scored the game-winning goal on a 2-on-0 breakaway in overtime, which came shortly after an uncalled trip on Matthew Schaefer. Despite building a 4-2 advantage earlier in the game, the Islanders were heavily outshot, requiring goaltender Ilya Sorokin to make 45 saves in the loss.

New Jersey initiated its third-period rally with a goal from Luke Evangelista before Dougie Hamilton capitalized on a late power play with a one-timer to tie the contest. The defeat marked the Islanders' third consecutive home loss. Ahead of their upcoming road trip, the team saw potential reinforcement as Mathew Barzal and Matias Maccelli shed their non-contact jerseys during morning skate.