It’s been quite a season so far for Brian Boyle. The 33-year-old journeyman forward is in his first season with the New Jersey Devils, and he’s lucky to even still be playing hockey, all things considered.
Brian Boyle’s magical season continues after scoring game-tying and game-winning goals
The New Jersey Devils owe their two points on Thursday to their veteran.
Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images
Back in September, Boyle was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia, a rare yet treatable form of cancer. Since returning, Boyle’s had an emotional first goal and an equally touching moment during the Devils’ “Hockey Fights Cancer” night in November.
Boyle has been an effective force for the Devils recently, and his efforts culminated in scoring both the game-tying and game-winning goals for New Jersey in their rivalry game against the New York Rangers.
Late in the third period on a power play, Boyle got the Devils tied 3-3 on a backhander in front of Henrik Lundqvist. The goal was Boyle’s ninth on the season. Last season, he had 13 in 75 games.
After the goal tied the game, Boyle was given a chance to continue his good fortune in the shootout, and he delivered with a simple five-hole goal to win it.
In Boyle’s last three games, he’s had three goals and four assists, plus a shootout winner to boot. With the win, the Devils now keep pace with the Washington Capitals at the top of the Metropolitan Division with 45 points.
Though Boyle plays a limited role on the Devils, he’s certainly responsible for the two points the team got on Thursday.
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