Pierre Engvall scored the game-winning goal shorthanded with 4:42 remaining in the third period as the Toronto Maple Leafs posted a 3-2 victory over the New Jersey Devils on Wednesday night.
The forward came into opposing territory on a two-on-one drive while Ilya Mikheyev was in jail after picking up a double minor for high sticking. Engvall delayed his move before unleashing a shot that beat goalkeeper Nico Daws from the short side. It was his 11th goal of the season.
Petr Mrazek blocked 20 shots in the win in his first game since going on waivers last weekend.
“We needed this win on home rink, especially after the loss in Nashville. That’s a big two-pointer,” Mrazek said.
“It’s always important to have the confidence of your coaches and your teammates. I had a good chat with (coach) Sheldon Keefe. It was time to start fresh and move on. Now I have to play hockey and have fun. »
Mark Giordano was playing his first game with his new team, a few days after being acquired from the Seattle Kraken. He was Keefe’s fourth most-used defenseman with 18 minutes and 35 seconds of playing time. He checked three times and blocked two shots.
“I felt good all day. I was excited. I received a nice reception, I’m very happy. It’s really special to put on this jersey,” said the 38-year-old veteran, who also played on the second wave of the power play.
“When they announced my name in the starting lineup, I got a nice ovation. The victory makes the evening even more perfect. »
Ilya Mikheyev also scored short from a man thanks to a nice feint at the expense of Daws, while Mitch Marner was the other scorer in the winning clan.
Damon Severson and Nico Hischier provided the reply.
The game was played under the eyes of Canadian singer and international star Justin Bieber, who is the artistic designer of the Maple Leafs’ new “next generation” jersey.
Bieber even went to the locker room after the game.
“It’s nice to have someone special in our room. The victory, the jerseys and his presence, it all makes it special,” added Mrazek.