Simon Nemec had a challenging 2024-25 season, beginning the playoffs as a healthy scratch. However, facing a two-game deficit and a depleted defensive lineup on Friday night, the second-year defenseman rose to the occasion for the New Jersey Devils.
The 21-year-old Nemec, the youngest player on the Devils` roster and one of their few healthy blueliners, ended the game, which was the longest of the season to date. He scored the game-winning goal with a brilliant solo rush early in the second overtime period, beating Frederik Andersen with a quick shot under his arm.
This secured a crucial 3-2 double-overtime victory against the strong Carolina Hurricanes, narrowing the series deficit to 2-1 and injecting much-needed life into the Devils.
Devils fans can breathe a sigh of relief tonight. The team avoided being on the verge of elimination, and the series has suddenly become much more compelling.
