The team is currently in fifth place in the Eastern Conference, alternating between wins and losses. While they started the season strong with some solid winning streaks, they’ve struggled to win more than two games in a row for the past two months. This makes it difficult for them to secure a spot in the top three, even though they are just a few points behind second place. Lately, their results have been inconsistent, as they keep alternating victories and defeats.
Strengths: The Devils tend to perform better at home, having secured 14 wins in regulation. They are also strong in the second period, with a 69:40 ratio of goals scored to conceded in that frame. Defensively, they allow opponents an average of 25 shots on goal, which demonstrates their ability to control the game. Their top scorer, Jesper Bratt, has earned 61 points so far.
Key Players: Jesper Bratt (61 points), Markström, Hischier, and Siegenthaler (all injured).
Injuries: Markström, Hischier, and Siegenthaler will miss the upcoming game.
Vegas remains one of the top teams in the Western Conference, currently in fourth place. However, their recent form has been disappointing, as they have suffered five losses in their last six games. Their performance is at its lowest of the season, as they continue to struggle with both creating and converting scoring chances.
Strengths: Despite recent setbacks, Vegas is still one of the highest-scoring teams in the conference. They have shown their strength, especially in the third period, where their goal-scoring ratio is 72:43. In terms of discipline, they typically spend less than three minutes in the penalty box per game, demonstrating solid control over their play.
Key Players: Key players such as Karlsson, Lehner, Pearson, Lavoie, and Schwint will be absent due to injuries, weakening the lineup.
Injuries: Karlsson, Lehner, Pearson, Lavoie, and Schwint will not play in the upcoming match.
Given the current form of both teams and the injuries affecting key players, New Jersey has a clear advantage, especially playing at home. Their solid defensive structure and ability to control the game will likely give them the edge. However, Vegas is a talented team and can pose a threat, especially in the latter stages of the game, despite their current struggles. Expected Outcome: New Jersey is likely to win, with a final score of 4-2 or 3-1.
Both teams enter this matchup in mediocre form, but Vegas is in much worse shape than New Jersey. The Golden Knights have yet to earn a single point on their current road trip and are struggling significantly with their offensive performance. On the other hand, the Devils play a more conservative style, which helps them fare well against teams that are having trouble generating offense. Additionally, on home ice, Sheldon Keefe’s squad rarely loses within regulation, making a bet on their victory with a handicap look like a solid option.
Bookmakers are offering odds of 2.35 for New Jersey, 4.20 for a draw, and 4.55 for Vegas. Total over 5.5 goals is offered for 1.80, total under for 2.00.
Prediction – New Jersey to win with a handicap (0) at 1.85.
