- What: NHL Regular Season Game
- When: February 26, 2025
- Who: New Jersey Devils vs. Colorado Avalanche
- Time: 6:30 p.m. PST
- Where: Ball Arena (Denver, CO)
The New Jersey Devils (32-21-6) have experienced fluctuations in their performance lately due to significant injuries.
Although the team currently holds a playoff position in the Metropolitan Division, ongoing struggles could allow other teams to overtake them.
On Wednesday, they will face the Colorado Avalanche (33-24-2), who have been performing exceptionally well recently.
Despite a major roster overhaul this season, the Avalanche appear to be emerging as serious contenders for the Stanley Cup.
New Jersey
The New Jersey Devils started the season strong but have hit a rough patch lately, losing eight of their last 14 games. They currently sit in third place in the Metropolitan Division, with just a six-point cushion above the team in fourth.
Although they boast one of the league’s top offensive units, averaging 3.07 goals per game this season, their strong defensive play is evident as they rank second in the NHL with a 2.46 goals-against average. These strengths will be crucial as they aim for a deep Stanley Cup run.
A battle with the Avs.
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????: https://t.co/GDJDPJM7sA#NJDevils | @CitizensBank pic.twitter.com/9cfuvcr40o— New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) February 26, 2025
Jack Hughes and Jesper Bratt have been the standout performers for the team, each accumulating 68 points this season. The Devils’ depth has allowed them to win in various ways throughout the year.
In their most recent game, they delivered a commanding performance against the Nashville Predators, securing a 5-0 victory.
Bratt, Nico Hischier, and Luke Hughes combined for an impressive seven assists, while goalie Nico Daws made a stellar showing, stopping all 29 shots he faced.
Colorado
The Colorado Avalanche are among the most talent-laden teams in the Western Conference. With a home record of 16-10-2 this season, they’re currently just four points away from claiming the third spot in the Central Division.
Averaging 3.17 goals per game, the Avalanche have demonstrated solid consistency in the 2024/25 season. Despite a slow start in goal, they now sit at 23rd in the NHL in goals against average (GAA) at 3.02.
The addition of Mackenzie Blackwood could signal a positive shift in their goaltending performance moving forward.
The boys are back at Ball Arena and it’s Pride Night! #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/k7Z8dzKNHz
— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) February 26, 2025
As expected, reigning Hart Trophy winner Nathan MacKinnon leads the charge with 87 points in 59 games.
Meanwhile, Martin Necas has made an impactful contribution, scoring nine points in 10 games since joining the team, ensuring they haven’t missed a beat.
Recently, Colorado faced a tough defeat against the St. Louis Blues. A goal from Devon Toews wasn’t enough as Blackwood allowed three goals on 25 shots, resulting in a 3-1 loss.
Devils-Avalanche Best Bet
The Devils and Avalanche have some bad blood between them. Even though they don’t meet frequently, this rivalry has grown quite competitive in recent years, with the Avalanche holding a 6-4 edge in their last 10 encounters since the 2019 season.
Colorado has performed well at home during this period, boasting a 4-1 record and outscoring New Jersey 20-12.
Meanwhile, the Devils have struggled on the road lately, sitting at 4-4 in their last eight games. Given these factors, Colorado will likely capitalize on this matchup and aim for a significant victory.
Take the Avs to win this one in regulation at plus-money.
Best Bet: Colorado Avalanche to win in regulation at +110 odds.
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Tony Reyes is a sports betting analyst and reporter for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X @TonyParlay.
