The New Jersey Devils (33-23-6) and Dallas Stars (39-19-2) are set to face off in an exciting interconference matchup on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. Both teams are in the thick of the playoff race, making this game a crucial contest as the regular season enters its final stretch. Here’s a detailed preview:
Team Overview
- New Jersey Devils: The Devils are currently fourth in the Metropolitan Division and are battling for a Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference. They are wrapping up a five-game road trip, during which they have gone 2-2-0 so far, with wins against Nashville and Utah and losses to Colorado and Vegas. New Jersey has been solid defensively, allowing just 2.7 goals per game (7th in the NHL), but their offense has been inconsistent, averaging 2.9 goals per game (19th in the league). The Devils will look to their star players, including Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier, to lead the way in this critical matchup.
- Dallas Stars: The Stars are second in the Central Division and are aiming to secure home-ice advantage in the playoffs. They have been in excellent form, winning four of their last five games, including a dominant 6-3 victory over the St. Louis Blues in their most recent outing. Dallas boasts one of the league’s most balanced teams, ranking 4th in goals per game (3.4) and 3rd in goals allowed per game (2.57). With a 22-7-1 record at home, the Stars are a formidable opponent at the American Airlines Center.
Key Players to Watch
- New Jersey Devils:
- Jack Hughes: The dynamic center leads the Devils with 27 goals and 43 assists for 70 points this season. His ability to create scoring opportunities and control the pace of the game makes him a key player for New Jersey.
- Nico Hischier: The Devils’ captain has been in great form since returning from injury, recording 10 points (5 goals, 5 assists) in his last 10 games. His leadership and two-way play are vital for the Devils’ success.
- Vitek Vanecek: The goaltender has been solid this season, with a .914 save percentage and a 2.58 goals-against average. His performance will be crucial against Dallas’ potent offense.
- Dallas Stars:
- Wyatt Johnston: The young forward is riding a six-game scoring streak, during which he has tallied 10 points (6 goals, 4 assists). He recorded a hat trick in the Stars’ win over St. Louis, with all three goals coming on the power play.
- Jason Robertson: The All-Star winger has been a consistent offensive force, with 25 goals and 37 assists this season. His ability to score in key moments makes him a player to watch.
- Jake Oettinger: The goaltender has been outstanding, with a .921 save percentage and a 2.41 goals-against average. His ability to make clutch saves gives Dallas a significant advantage.
Matchup Analysis
- Offense vs. Defense: Dallas’ high-powered offense will test New Jersey’s disciplined defense. The Stars’ ability to generate scoring chances and capitalize on the power play (ranked 5th in the NHL at 26.8%) could be a deciding factor. Meanwhile, the Devils will need to rely on their speed and transition game to create opportunities against Dallas’ strong defensive structure.
- Special Teams: The Stars’ power play has been a major strength, while their penalty kill ranks 8th in the league (82.5%). The Devils’ power play has been inconsistent, ranking 21st (18.3%), but their penalty kill is solid at 10th (81.9%). Special teams could play a pivotal role in this game.
- Key Matchup: The duel between Jack Hughes and Wyatt Johnston will be a highlight. Both players are capable of taking over the game, and their performances could heavily influence the outcome.
Injury Report
- New Jersey Devils:
- Jack Hughes (lower body) is questionable after suffering an injury in the game against Vegas.
- Brett Pesce (upper body) is out.
- Dallas Stars:
- Roope Hintz (illness) is questionable.
- Thomas Harley (lower body) is out.
What to Expect
This game is expected to be a fast-paced and competitive contest. The Stars enter as the favorites, given their superior record, home-ice advantage, and recent form. However, the Devils’ resilience and ability to play well on the road (18-13-2 record) make them a dangerous opponent. Expect a tightly contested game with playoff-like intensity as both teams fight for crucial points.
New Jersey Devils 5.5
Dallas Stars – 155
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, March 3, 2025
