The New Jersey Devils and Columbus Blue Jackets are set to face off in a pivotal NHL matchup on Monday, March 17, 2025, at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio. The puck drops at 4:00 PM PST, and fans can catch the action on MSGSN, FDSOH, or ESPN+.
Team Overview
New Jersey Devils
The Devils are currently holding the third spot in the Metropolitan Division with a record of 36-26-6. Despite their solid position, they are missing key players like Jack Hughes, who is out for the season due to shoulder surgery, and defensemen Dougie Hamilton and Jonas Siegenthaler. However, Jesper Bratt has stepped up in Hughes’ absence, leading the team with 79 points and 60 assists, while Nico Hischier has been their top goal scorer with 28 goals. The Devils’ special teams have been a mixed bag, with a decent power play but a penalty kill that has struggled at times.
Columbus Blue Jackets
The Blue Jackets are fighting to stay in the playoff race, sitting in fifth place in the Metropolitan Division with a record of 31-27-8. They have lost three straight games and five of their last six, including back-to-back shutouts at home. Zach Werenski has been a standout performer, leading the team with 69 points and 49 assists, while Kirill Marchenko has been their top goal scorer with 25 goals. The Blue Jackets’ special teams have been a weak point, with both their power play and penalty kill ranking among the league’s worst.
Key Matchup
The Devils’ offensive depth, led by Bratt and Hischier, will test the Blue Jackets’ defense, anchored by Werenski. Columbus will need a strong performance from their goaltender, likely Elvis Merzlikins, to contain New Jersey’s scoring threats. On the other hand, the Blue Jackets must find a way to reignite their offense, which has been dormant in recent games.
