Devils Edge Flames in Overtime Thriller

In a tightly contested matchup at the Scotiabank Saddledome, the New Jersey Devils triumphed over the Calgary Flames 2-1 in overtime on January 20, 2026. This victory not only extends New Jersey's lead in the series to 2-0 but also highlights their resilience, especially given their recent struggles on the road. The Flames, who have been inconsistent this season, faced a tough challenge against a Devils team that has shown flashes of brilliance despite a recent dip in form.

The Flames entered the game with a home record of 21 wins, 23 losses, and 5 overtime losses, while the Devils boasted a slightly better away record of 25 wins, 22 losses, and 2 overtime losses. Calgary's recent form showed a mixed bag with a record of 5-5 over their last ten games, currently riding a two-game winning streak. They averaged 2.5 goals scored and 2.8 goals allowed during this stretch. In contrast, New Jersey had struggled, recording a 4-6 record in their last ten games, with a scoring average of just 2.1 goals while allowing 3.5, indicating their defensive vulnerabilities.

At home, the Flames had a record of 3-2 in their last five games, while the Devils' away performance was less impressive, with only 2 wins in their last five. Historically, the Flames had performed well against the Devils, winning both of their previous meetings in the 2025 season, including a 3-0 shutout at home and a 5-3 victory away. However, the Devils turned the tables in this matchup, showcasing their ability to adapt and overcome.

In terms of injuries, the Flames were significantly impacted, missing key players such as Jonathan Huberdeau, who was placed on injured reserve due to a hip injury, and several others including Kevin Bahl, Connor Zary, Yan Kuznetsov, and Joel Hanley, all of whom were out with various ailments. The Devils also faced injury challenges, with Arseny Gritsyuk and Evan Rodrigues on injured reserve, alongside Jonas Siegenthaler, Luke Hughes, and Stefan Noesen who were out for undisclosed reasons. These absences undoubtedly affected both teams' lineups and strategies.

The betting market reflected the competitive nature of the game, with DraftKings listing the Devils as the favorites at -125, while the Flames were priced at +105 on the money line. The spread was set at 1.5, and the total for the game was 5.5, indicating expectations for a closely contested battle.

The game conditions were typical for a January evening in Calgary, with the atmosphere electric as fans filled the Saddledome. The scoring opened in the second period when Dawson Mercer scored for the Devils, tipping in a shot assisted by Dougie Hamilton and Jonas Siegenthaler. The Flames responded quickly, with Nazem Kadri leveling the score with a slap shot, assisted by Kevin Bahl and Matvei Gridin.

As the game progressed into overtime, both teams had opportunities to secure the win, but it was Simon Nemec who clinched the victory for the Devils with a snap shot, assisted by Jack Hughes and Jesper Bratt. This goal not only secured the win but also showcased the offensive talent present in New Jersey's lineup.

Viewers watching the game were treated to a display of competitive hockey, with both teams demonstrating their strengths and weaknesses. The Flames' ability to respond after falling behind was notable, but ultimately, the Devils' persistence in overtime proved decisive. This matchup serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of the NHL, where any team can emerge victorious on any given night.