Senators Defeat Devils 4-1 in New Jersey

The Ottawa Senators defeated the New Jersey Devils 4-1 at Prudential Center, with Ottawa controlling the game through defensive structure and New Jersey struggling to create quality chances despite a 30-20 shot advantage, according to NHL and Yahoo Sports reports.

The Senators scored four goals from Shane Pinto, Stephen Halliday, Tim Stutzle and an empty-net finish. Arseny Gritsyuk recorded New Jersey's only goal, his first of the season, while Linus Ullmark stopped the Devils' attempts.

New Jersey fell behind nine seconds into the second period when Pinto scored. Ottawa later extended the lead on Halliday's goal during a power-play sequence before Stutzle made it 3-0 in the third period, according to NHL's game recap.

Devils coach Sheldon Keefe addressed the team's offensive difficulties after Ottawa limited space through the middle of the ice.

"We've got to learn how to score when it's hard," said Sheldon Keefe, head coach.

Keefe said the Devils needed more production from their top players, including Jack Hughes and Jesper Bratt. He also pointed to the need for different offensive solutions when rush opportunities are unavailable.

"We'd like more, but I'd like more from Jack and Bratt, too," said Sheldon Keefe, head coach.

"Those guys have to find their way inside more. Chances on the rush, if they're not available, we've got to find different ways to score," said Sheldon Keefe, head coach.

The coach also discussed the challenge facing Hughes and Bratt's playing style as New Jersey searched for more consistent scoring.

"Jack and Bratt don't play an interior game, and they're some of the biggest drivers of our team," said Sheldon Keefe, head coach.

"We've got to find different ways for them to get to the inside consistently so they can be dangerous that way," said Sheldon Keefe, head coach.

Bratt said the Devils had trouble turning possession into dangerous chances because Ottawa protected the middle area and forced shots from less threatening positions.

"They give you the outside, and then you can play there all night," said Jesper Bratt, winger.

Bratt also said Ullmark benefited when he had clear views of incoming shots. The Devils failed to convert on two power-play opportunities against Ottawa after scoring three times on the power play in their previous game against Vancouver.

"We made tonight a little too easy on Ullmark," said Jesper Bratt, winger.

Bratt added that the line with Hughes and Anthony Mantha was still developing its chemistry.

"We're instinct players, and we're fast. Sometimes we're maybe in areas where we shouldn't be, and then we're transitioning fast," said Jesper Bratt, winger.

Defenseman Brett Pesce said New Jersey needed to avoid repeatedly playing from behind after Ottawa scored first for the fifth consecutive game.

"It's not fun chasing the game, going down goals over and over," said Brett Pesce, defenseman.

Pesce also described Ottawa's approach as a model the Devils could follow. The Senators blocked 17 shots by the end of the second period, according to the game analysis from All About The Jersey.

"They play a simple game," said Brett Pesce, defenseman.

"They get it in. They wear our D out. They stay on the hunt. We could take a little page from their book, to be honest," said Brett Pesce, defenseman.