The New Jersey Devils faced a tough defeat against the Anaheim Ducks on December 31, 2024, ending the year on a disappointing note. With a final score of 4-1 in favor of the Ducks, the game highlighted ongoing concerns regarding the Devils’ depth and lineup decisions. Despite early optimism, the Devils struggled throughout the match, illustrating a troubling trend that has been observed in previous games. After the match, head coach Lindy Ruff addressed the media, stating, “We’ve got to find a way to get back to our winning ways. This performance isn’t acceptable,” which echoed the sentiments of frustrated players. The Ducks took an early lead with a goal by Trevor Zegras in the first period, followed by goals from Troy Terry and Frank Vatrano, pushing the score to 3-0. Although the Devils managed to score one goal thanks to Jack Hughes in the second period, they faced immediate retaliation as the Ducks scored again, solidifying a commanding lead. This performance raised questions about the team’s depth and consistency going forward into 2025. Analysts and fans alike are now concerned about the implications of these lineup decisions and how they could impact the remainder of the season. The loss not only sealed the end of a tumultuous year for the Devils but also highlighted areas for urgent improvement as the new year begins.
Devils End 2024 with a Challenging Loss to the Anaheim Ducks
