In this article, we will formulate a Devils vs Hurricanes prediction for this NHL game on Friday, April 25, at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ. Let’s take a look at the prediction for this NHL matchup.
Carolina Hurricanes Betting Preview
The Carolina Hurricanes (49-30-5, 39-45 ATS) are in a commanding position in this playoff series after defeating the Devils in the opening two games. Following a convincing 4-1 win in Game 1, the Canes had to come from behind in Game 2, but still secured a 3-1 win in the end. Shayne Gostisbehere, Jordan Martinook (shorthanded), and Seth Jarvis scored for Carolina, while Frederik Andersen saved 25 of 26 shots he faced.
The Hurricanes score 3.24 goals per game on average (9th), while they concede 2.81 GPG (10th). This season, Sebastian Aho leads the team with 75 points (29 G and 46 A). Seth Jarvis has 68 points (32 G and 36 A), while Andrei Svechnikov chips in with 50 points (21 G and 29 A).
Frederik Andersen (15-8-1) is expected to start for the Hurricanes at the goal on Friday against the Devils. The 35-year-old is allowing 2.50 goals per game this year with a .899 SV% and one shutout.
New Jersey Devils Betting Preview
The New Jersey Devils (42-35-7, 32-52 ATS) are hoping not to drop into the hole after losing the opening two games of this series. The Devils scored just one goal in each game in Carolina, and their offense must improve if they want to extend this series. Jesper Bratt scored in Game 2 to give the lead to Devils, but the Canes responded with three goals and secured the win. Jacob Markstrom stopped 25 of 27 shots he faced.
The Devils average 2.93 goals per game this year (18th), while they allow 2.68 GPG (5th). Jesper Bratt leads the team with 90 points (22 G and 68 A). Nico Hischier contributes 70 points (36 G and 34 A), while Timo Meier has 53 points (26 G and 27 A).
Jacob Markstrom (26-18-6) will likely take his place in the cage for the Devils on Friday against the Hurricanes. The 35-year-old is allowing 2.50 goals per game this year with a .900 SV% and four shutouts.
Why the Devils will beat the Hurricanes
- The Hurricanes have lost each of their last four games as road favorites against Eastern Conference opponents.
- The home team has won each of the last six games between the Hurricanes and Devils.
- The home team has covered the puck line in each of the last six games between the Hurricanes and Devils.
- The Hurricanes have failed to cover the puck line in each of their last six road games against Eastern Conference opponents.
- The Hurricanes have lost the second period in each of their last four night games at Prudential Center following a win.
Total Goals Facts
- Five of the Devils’ last six games at Prudential Center against opponents on a winning streak have gone UNDER the total goals line.
- Four of the Hurricanes’ last five night games against the Devils following a win have gone UNDER the total goals line.
- The ‘Over 1.5 Goals Period 3′ market has hit in 18 of the Devils’ last 19 games as home underdogs.
- The ‘Over 1.5 Goals Period 2′ market has hit in each of the Hurricanes’ last seven games against Metropolitan Division opponents.
Matchup/League Facts
- The New Jersey Devils rank 5th in the league for goals against per game this season (2.68).
- The New Jersey Devils are the only team in the league to rank top 5 for both power play and penalty kill percentage this season.
- The Carolina Hurricanes rank 25th in the league in power play percentage this season (18.70%).
- The Carolina Hurricanes rank 1st in the league for shots against per game this season (24.9).
Devils vs Hurricanes Prediction
The Hurricanes won eight of the previous ten H2H encounters, four of six this season, and were better in the last three meetings. Coming back from a 0-3 hole seems highly unlikely for the Devils, so they cannot afford to lose this one. If they do lose on Friday, I’m afraid they will be swept, which would be a sad ending to the season. The Devils must utilize their defense, one of the best five in the NHL, on home ice and prevent the Canes from scoring more than two goals. If that happens, the Devils will have their chance. I am backing New Jersey to get back into the series with a W here.