"Only to get annihilated by the New York Rangers": NHL Twitter reacts to New Jersey Devils reaching playoffs for the first time since 2018

By Saurabh Saini

Modified Mar 26, 2023 16:23 GMT

The New Jersey Devils beat the Ottawa Senators 5-3 on Saturday to qualify for this season's Stanley Cup playoffs. Not only that, this is their first 100-point season in a decade.

"First #StanleyCup Playoffs berth since 2017-18. First 100-point campaign since 2011-12. The@NJDevilsare already +37 vs. their 2021-22 point total, with nine games to play. #NHLStats" - @PR_NHL

The Ottawa Senators scored the first goal but could not maintain the lead as the Devils pulled one back through Jack Hughes. The Devils started the second period on a high note with goals from Jesper Bratt and Dawson Mercer, but the Senators canceled it out to end the second period tied at 3-3. In the deciding period, the Devils showed better defensive ability while scoring two goals to win the game.

NHL Twitter gave mixed reactions to the Devils' achievement. Many showed happiness, but few predicted that the New York Rangers would do better.

"Only to get annihilated by the NYR", tweeted @RamettaJoey

Here are a few more tweets:

New Jersey Devils' 2022-23 season overview

New Jersey Devils players in action during an NHL game

The New Jersey Devils have played well this season and are placed second in the Eastern Conference Metropolitan Division with 100 points.

The Devils have played well offensively and have scored 254 goals in 73 games so far. Jack Hughes, Jesper Bratt and Nico Hischier have contributed 101 goals and have been the steering force behind the offense.

On the defensive front, the Devils have done a fantastic job allowing 2.7 goals per game this season. All the goaltenders have played their roles perfectly, barring Mackenzie Blackwood, who has been slightly expensive.

Vitek Vanecek justified his position as the No. 1 goaltender for the team with a save percentage of 0.909 and a win-loss record of 29-13.

What's next for the New Jersey Devils?

Even though the New Jersey Devils have achieved playoff qualification, there are many things still left that can be achieved, including the division title. They are two points behind the Carolina Hurricanes and will focus on surpassing them for the top position in the standings.

The Devils have lost three of their past five games, and it will be a challenge for them to overcome their incosistency. It will be interesting to see how the Devils approach the New York Islanders game. Both teams are tied 1-1 in the two meetings so far, and we can expect it to be a tight affair as they take to the ice on March 27.