As the Detroit Red Wings (38-35-7) visit the New Jersey Devils (42-32-7) at the Prudential Center on April 16, 2025, both teams are vying for crucial points in their respective playoff races. This matchup features contrasting styles and key injuries that could significantly influence the outcome.
Team Performance and Standings
The Devils, third in the Metropolitan Division, boast a +23 goal differential, scoring 238 goals and allowing 215. Their offensive prowess is evident in their 3.03 goals per game, ranking 13th in the league. Conversely, the Red Wings sit sixth in the Atlantic Division with a -26 goal differential, scoring 227 goals and conceding 253. Their 2.88 goals per game place them 17th in the NHL.
Home and Away Records
New Jersey has been formidable at home with a 15-10-4 record, while Detroit has a respectable 14-10-3 record on the road. The Devils’ home advantage could play a pivotal role in this contest.
Special Teams Matchup
The Devils’ power play operates at an impressive 27.5%, ranking fourth in the league, while their penalty kill stands at 83.4%, third-best in the NHL. The Red Wings’ power play is close behind at 27.2% (fifth), but their penalty kill struggles at 70.1%, ranking last in the league. This disparity suggests the Devils could capitalize on special teams opportunities.
Goaltending Comparison
With Devils’ starter Jacob Markstrom sidelined due to an MCL sprain, veteran Jake Allen is expected to start. Allen has a 12-16-1 record, a 2.61 goals-against average (GAA), and a .908 save percentage. For Detroit, Petr Mrazek is projected to start, holding a 12-21-2 record, a 3.05 GAA, and a .891 save percentage. The Devils hold a slight edge in goaltending performance.
Injury Impact
New Jersey is missing key players, including defenseman Dougie Hamilton and center Jack Hughes, both out for the season . Detroit is without forward Andrew Copp for the remainder of the season due to a pectoral injury . These absences could affect team dynamics and depth.
Advanced Metrics and Possession Stats
The Devils excel in puck possession with a 53.5% faceoff win rate (fourth in the league), while the Red Wings struggle at 48.8% (23rd). New Jersey’s ability to control the puck could lead to increased scoring opportunities.
Recent Form and Schedule Considerations
Both teams have identical 5-4-1 records in their last 10 games. The Devils are coming off a one-game winning streak, while the Red Wings have won their last two. Neither team has significant rest disadvantages heading into this matchup.
Betting Odds and Public Trends
As of April 16, 2025, the Red Wings are slight road favorites with a moneyline of -111, while the Devils are close underdogs at -108. The puck line is set at 1.5, and the total goals over/under is 5.5. The tight odds reflect the evenly matched nature of this game.
Prediction and Betting Recommendations
Predicted Final Score: Devils 3, Red Wings 2
Confidence Level: Medium
Recommended Bet: Under 5.5 Total Goals
Reasoning: Both teams have shown solid defensive play, and with key offensive players sidelined, scoring may be limited. The Devils’ strong penalty kill could neutralize the Red Wings’ power play, further reducing goal-scoring opportunities.
Player Prop Bet Suggestions
-
Jesper Bratt Over 0.5 Points: With Jack Hughes out, Bratt has taken on a larger offensive role and could contribute to the scoresheet.
-
Alex DeBrincat Over 2.5 Shots on Goal: DeBrincat remains a primary shooting option for Detroit and is likely to test the Devils’ goaltending.
Key Matchups to Watch
-
Special Teams Battle: The Devils’ efficient power play against the Red Wings’ struggling penalty kill could be decisive.
-
Faceoff Duels: New Jersey’s superior faceoff win percentage may lead to better puck control and offensive opportunities.
-
Goaltender Performance: Jake Allen’s steadiness versus Petr Mrazek’s inconsistency could tilt the game’s outcome.
In summary, this matchup features two teams with playoff aspirations and contrasting strengths. The Devils’ home advantage, special teams proficiency, and puck possession capabilities give them a slight edge. However, the Red Wings’ resilience and recent form make this a closely contested game. Betting on the under for total goals appears to be a prudent choice given the circumstances.
