The Carolina Hurricanes and New Jersey Devils are set to face off in Game 4 of their first-round Stanley Cup Playoff series on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. With the Hurricanes leading the series 2-1, this matchup is crucial for both teams as they battle for control in the Eastern Conference playoffs.
Game Details
- Date: Sunday, April 27, 2025
- Time: 3:30 PM ET
- Venue: Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey
- Broadcast: TBS, truTV, Max, MSGSN, SN360
Team Overview
Carolina Hurricanes
- Regular Season Record: 47-30-5 (2nd in Metropolitan Division)
- Key Players:
- Sebastian Aho: Aho has been a standout performer, contributing power-play goals and assists in the series. His ability to create scoring opportunities will be vital for Carolina.
- Frederik Andersen: Andersen has been stellar in goal, boasting a 1.48 goals-against average and .943 save percentage in the playoffs. His consistency provides a strong backbone for the Hurricanes.
- Jordan Martinook: Martinook’s short-handed goal in Game 2 highlighted his versatility and impact on special teams.
- Strengths:
Carolina’s special teams have been exceptional, with a perfect 10-for-10 penalty kill in the series and multiple power-play goals. Their defensive structure and ability to capitalize on mistakes make them a formidable opponent. - Challenges:
The Hurricanes have struggled in 5-on-5 play, as seen in their double-overtime loss in Game 3. Improving their even-strength performance will be key to regaining momentum.
New Jersey Devils
- Regular Season Record: 42-33-7 (3rd in Metropolitan Division)
- Key Players:
- Simon Nemec: Nemec scored the game-winning goal in double overtime in Game 3, showcasing his poise under pressure.
- Jonas Siegenthaler: Siegenthaler returned from injury to log significant ice time and contribute defensively in Game 3.
- Nico Hischier: The Devils’ captain has been instrumental in generating offense and maintaining composure during high-pressure moments.
- Strengths:
The Devils thrive on their physicality and defensive depth, as evidenced by their ability to withstand Carolina’s power-play surge in Game 3. Their resilience and home-ice advantage will be critical. - Challenges:
Injuries to key players like Johnathan Kovacevic have tested the Devils’ depth. Maintaining discipline and avoiding penalties will be essential to counter Carolina’s special teams.
Key Matchups
- Sebastian Aho vs. Nico Hischier:
A battle of elite centers, Aho’s offensive creativity and Hischier’s leadership will set the tone for their respective teams. - Frederik Andersen vs. Jacob Markstrom:
Both goaltenders have been outstanding, making this a pivotal matchup. Andersen’s consistency and Markstrom’s ability to steal games will be under the spotlight. - Special Teams:
Carolina’s penalty kill and power play have been dominant, while New Jersey must find ways to capitalize on their opportunities.
What’s at Stake
- For the Hurricanes: A win would give Carolina a commanding 3-1 series lead, putting them one step closer to advancing to the second round.
- For the Devils: A victory would even the series at 2-2, shifting momentum back to New Jersey as they fight to stay alive in the playoffs.
Game Odds
Carolina Hurricanes – 180
New Jersey Devils 5.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Saturday, April 26, 2025
