After creating more far offensive chances than the Bruins, the Devils broke through in the second period with four unanswered goals on 17 shots. This included Stefan Noesen and Dawson Mercer scoring just 12 seconds apart from each other.

The Boston Bruins are trying to build some ground to stand on in the crowded  Eastern Conference playoff field but didn’t do themselves any favors on Wednesday night after getting dismantled by the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center by the final score of 5-1.

Boston led, 1-0, after the first period, but couldn’t overcome a miserable second in which the Devils scored four times.

The New Jersey Devils hosted the Boston Bruins for their first meeting of the season on Wednesday night when the Devils put an end to their four-game losing streak, defeating the Bruins 5-1.

Things came apart in a hurry in the middle frame. The Bruins didn’t react well to two calls against them that they didn’t like and the Devils took advantage delivering an early knockout blow. They became the latest struggling team to get right against Boston, beating the Bruins, 5-1, Wednesday at the Prudential Center in Newark.

Goalie Jake Allen came in cold, but he picked up his first win since Nov. 23 at Washington. He stopped all 16 shots he faced. Allen denied David Pastrnak, a 60-goal scorer, minutes after entering the game. He made a split toe save on Oliver Wahlstrom and robbed Charlie Coyle on a breakaway as well during the game.

Morgan Geekie scored for the Bruins (23-20-6), who are 3-1-1 in their past five games. Jeremy Swayman allowed four goals on 29 shots in two periods. He was replaced by Joonas Korpisalo (five saves on six shots) at the start of the third period.

On Wednesday, January 22nd, the Devils ended their four-game losing streak with a convincing 5-1 victory over the Bruins at Prudential Center. This performance showcased a much-needed spark and a renewed sense of determination.

Donato and Hall have both played for the Bruins in the past ... Paul Cotter and Dawson Mercer. He can generate chances at mid-range and in high-danger areas, which can supplement the Devils ...

The Canucks have shown previous interest in Devils forward Dawson Mercer in the past. Mercer, 23, has scored 10 goals and 11 assists for 21 points with 78 shots on goal and a plus-10 rating ...

The Boston Bruins and the San Jose Sharks face off in a non-conference matchup on Monday, Jan. 20. ESPN+ plans are currently at $11.99 a month or $16.99 a month if you bundle with Hulu and Disney+.