The New Jersey Devils and Carolina Hurricanes are set to face off in Game 5 of their first-round NHL playoff series on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 PM ET.
Series Context
The Hurricanes lead the series 3-1 and are one win away from advancing to the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Carolina has displayed dominance throughout the series, including a commanding 5-2 victory in Game 4. Meanwhile, New Jersey faces a must-win scenario to keep their postseason hopes alive.
Team Records and Form
- Carolina Hurricanes: Finished the regular season with a 47-30-5 record, earning the second seed in the Metropolitan Division. They have won three of their last four games, showcasing their depth and defensive strength.
- New Jersey Devils: Ended the regular season with a 42-33-7 record, securing the third seed in the Metropolitan Division. The Devils have struggled in this series, losing three of the first four games, including two at home.
Key Players to Watch
- Carolina Hurricanes:
- Andrei Svechnikov: Coming off a stellar Game 4 performance with a hat trick, Svechnikov has been a key offensive driver for the Hurricanes.
- Sebastian Aho: Averaging over a point per game in the playoffs, Aho’s playmaking and scoring ability are critical for Carolina’s success.
- Pyotr Kochetkov: With Frederik Andersen sidelined due to an upper-body injury, Kochetkov is expected to start in goal. He was solid in relief during Game 4, preserving the win.
- New Jersey Devils:
- Nico Hischier: The Devils’ captain has been a consistent performer, leading by example with his two-way play.
- Jesper Bratt: Bratt’s speed and offensive creativity will be crucial as the Devils look to generate scoring chances.
- Jacob Markstrom: Acquired last offseason, Markstrom will need to deliver a standout performance in goal to give New Jersey a chance.
Matchup Insights
- Carolina has been dominant in the faceoff circle, winning 58.6% of draws in Game 4, which has helped them control possession and dictate the pace of play.
- The Hurricanes’ physicality has been evident, with 35 hits in Game 4 compared to New Jersey’s 31. Their ability to wear down the Devils has been a key factor in the series.
- New Jersey’s defense has struggled to contain Carolina’s balanced attack, particularly in transition. The Devils will need to tighten up defensively and capitalize on their scoring opportunities to stay alive in the series.
Venue and Stakes
Lenovo Center has been a fortress for the Hurricanes, who boast a strong home record. With the series on the line, Carolina will look to close out the Devils in front of their home crowd. New Jersey, on the other hand, must deliver a near-perfect performance to force a Game 6.
Game Odds
New Jersey Devils 5.5
Carolina Hurricanes – 278
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, April 28, 2025
