The New Jersey Devils and Vegas Golden Knights are set to clash on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. This exciting matchup features two playoff-contending teams from different conferences, each looking to solidify their positions as the regular season progresses. Here’s a detailed preview:
Team Overview
- New Jersey Devils (33-22-6): The Devils are currently tied for third in the Metropolitan Division with 72 points. They are on a five-game road trip and have gone 2-1-0 so far, including a 3-1 victory over Utah in their most recent outing. New Jersey has been solid on the road this season, boasting an 18-12-2 record. Their defense has been a key strength, allowing just 2.57 goals per game in February.
- Vegas Golden Knights (35-18-6): The Golden Knights sit atop the Pacific Division with 76 points, holding a four-point lead over the Edmonton Oilers. Vegas has been dominant at home, with a 21-6-3 record, and is coming off a thrilling 7-5 win over the Chicago Blackhawks. Their offense has been firing on all cylinders, averaging 3.86 goals per game in February.
Key Players to Watch
- New Jersey Devils:
- Jack Hughes: The star forward is riding a four-game point streak and leads the Devils with 27 goals and 43 assists this season. His playmaking and scoring ability make him a constant threat.
- Jesper Bratt: Bratt has been a key contributor with 17 goals and 51 assists. He has eight points in 11 career games against the Golden Knights.
- Nico Daws: The goaltender has been outstanding, starting the season 3-0-0 with a .968 save percentage and one shutout.
- Vegas Golden Knights:
- Jack Eichel: Eichel leads the Golden Knights with 19 goals and 51 assists. He has been particularly effective against the Devils, recording 20 points in 20 career games.
- Pavel Dorofeyev: The young forward has been a revelation this season, leading the team with 24 goals. His scoring touch will be crucial for Vegas.
- Tomas Hertl: Hertl has been in excellent form, with six goals and two assists in his last 10 games.
Injury Report
- New Jersey Devils: Defenseman Jonas Siegenthaler and goaltender Jacob Markstrom are on injured reserve, while Santeri Hatakka is also out.
- Vegas Golden Knights: William Karlsson and Cole Schwindt are unavailable, and Shea Theodore is week-to-week with a wrist injury.
Matchup Analysis
- Devils’ Defense vs. Golden Knights’ Offense: New Jersey’s defense has been strong, but they will face a tough challenge against Vegas’ high-powered offense, which has been averaging nearly four goals per game recently.
- Golden Knights’ Home Advantage: Vegas has made T-Mobile Arena a fortress, with a 21-6-3 record at home. The Devils will need to bring their best effort to overcome this advantage.
- Key Battle: The duel between Jack Hughes and Jack Eichel will be a highlight. Both players are capable of taking over the game, and their performances could determine the outcome.
New Jersey Devils 5.5
Vegas Golden Knights – 170
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Saturday, March 1, 2025
