The Winnipeg Jets are set to host the New Jersey Devils tonight at 8:00 PM ET at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba. This is the second meeting between these two teams this season; the Jets secured a decisive 6-1 victory in their previous matchup on March 7th. Winnipeg aims to continue their dominance, while New Jersey seeks redemption and valuable points in the playoff race.

 

Recent Performance

Winnipeg Jets (49-19-4)
The Jets have been formidable, boasting a 7-3-0 record in their last ten games. They recently clinched a 3-2 overtime win over the Washington Capitals on Tuesday, demonstrating both offensive prowess and defensive stability. Winnipeg averages 3.44 goals per game and allows 2.38 goals against, showcasing a balanced approach and the reason as to why they lead the Central Division.

 

New Jersey Devils (38-31-4)
The Devils have experienced inconsistency, posting a 5-4-1 record over their last ten games. They suffered a 4-3 loss in the shootout to the Vancouver Canucks but turned things around against the Chicago Blackhawks on Wednesday night, but still highlighted defensive vulnerabilities. Offensively, New Jersey averages 2.99 goals per game while conceding 2.62 goals against. They currently hold third place in the Metropolitan Division but must secure points to fend off the incoming divisional threats.

 

Team Records and Trends

Winnipeg Jets

• Overall Record: 49-19-4
• Home Record: 26-6-4
• Power Play: 29.7% (2nd in the NHL)
• Penalty Kill: 79% (15th in the NHL)
• Last 10 Games: 7-3-0

 

New Jersey Devils

• Overall Record: 38-31-4
• Road Record: 21-15-2
• Power Play: 28.1% (4th in the NHL)
• Penalty Kill: 82.3% (6th in the NHL)
• Last 10 Games: 5-4-1

 

Key Players to Watch

Winnipeg Jets

• Kyle Connor – Leads the team with 37 goals and 49 assists, totaling 86 points this season. His consistent scoring ability is vital for Winnipeg’s offensive success. He sits 3rd in NHL scoring.
• Mark Scheifele – Contributed 35 goals and 43 assists, playing a pivotal role in the Jets’ top line. Scheifele’s leadership and playmaking skills are such a massive asset to the team.

 

New Jersey Devils

• Jesper Bratt – With 20 goals and 64 assists, Bratt leads the Devils with 84 points this season. His shooting and playmaking ability is crucial for New Jersey’s offensive efforts against one of the best defensive teams in the NHL.
• Nico Hischier – The captain has recorded 30 goals and 29 assists, providing leadership and stability to the Devils’ lineup. He will need to be solid on the faceoff dot tonight.

 

Injury Report

Winnipeg Jets

• Rasmus Kupari – Out
• Gabriel Vilardi – Out
• Neal Pionk – Out

 

New Jersey Devils

• Jack Hughes – Long Term Injured Reserve
• Jonas Siegenthaler – Long Term Injured Reserve
• Dougie Hamilton – Out
• Cody Glass – Out

 

Goaltending Matchup

Winnipeg Jets

• Connor Hellebuyck – Confirmed to start. Hellebuyck has been outstanding with a 41-10-3 record, a 2.06 goals-against average and a .924 save percentage this season. His consistent performances have been a cornerstone of Winnipeg’s success.

 

New Jersey Devils

• Jake Allen – Confirmed to start. Allen holds a 12-14-1 record with a 2.56 GAA and a .912 SV% this season. Allen has been up and down in his career but the Devils need him more than ever here down the stretch.

 

Game Outlook

Winnipeg enters the game with momentum and a potent offense, while New Jersey faces challenges due to key injuries and recent inconsistent performances. The Jets 1st line power play and strong penalty kill present a significant advantage. For the Devils to compete, they must tighten their defense and capitalize on scoring opportunities. Goaltending will be pivotal, with Hellebuyck’s stellar form contrasting with Allen’s need to step up in Markstrom’s absence. Expect a competitive game as both teams vie for crucial points in their respective divisions to close out the NHL season.

 

For more insights and analysis, join my Discord community: https://discord.gg/nYuBqc26dh

– BetOnBanana