The NHL regular season continues with an intriguing matchup between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the New Jersey Devils. The game will take place at the Prudential Center on Thursday, April 9, 2026, with the puck dropping at 7:00 PM. Fans can catch the action live on ESPN+ as these two Eastern Metropolitan Division teams battle it out.
The Pittsburgh Penguins, coached by Dan Muse, enter the game with a solid record of 40-22-16. They have shown strength in their recent performances, securing victories in four of their last five games, including a commanding 5-2 win against the Florida Panthers. The Penguins are currently ranked 5th in the conference and 2nd in their division, making them a formidable opponent for any team.
The New Jersey Devils, led by head coach Sheldon Keefe, have had a more challenging season with a record of 40-35-3. Despite their struggles, they managed to pull off a significant 3-0 victory against the Montreal Canadiens. However, they will need to improve on their recent form to overcome the Penguins, as their conference and division records suggest they have faced difficulties against similar opponents this season.
Devils vs Penguins At a Glance
- Game Location: Prudential Center
- Game Time: Thursday, April 9, 2026 at 7:00 PM
- TV Channel: ESPN+
- Penguins Record: 40-22-16
- Devils Record: 40-35-3
- Game Odds: Penguins MoneyLine -111, Devils MoneyLine -108
New Jersey Devils Set to Battle on Home Ice
Offensive Overview
The Devils have found the net 215 times this season, ranking them 22nd in the league. Despite their struggles in scoring, their 365 assists place them at 25th, indicating a need for improved execution in their offensive plays. New Jersey’s 4th ranked shots on goal total of 2321 showcases their ability to create opportunities.
With 44 power play goals, the Devils hold the 14th spot in the league, reflecting moderate success in capitalizing on man-advantage situations. However, their ability to convert these chances will be crucial against a competitive opponent. Their physical play is highlighted by 1469 hits, placing them 24th, which could be a factor in wearing down their rivals.
Defensive Dynamics
The Devils have allowed 224 goals this season, securing the 13th position defensively. Their goaltenders have made 1895 saves, showcasing a defense capable of withstanding pressure. Despite having zero shutouts, the defensive unit remains resilient.
With 1086 blocks, ranked 20th, the Devils show a commitment to protecting their net. Their defensive efforts are further illustrated by 2202 faceoffs won, placing them 12th. However, limiting giveaways, which stand at 1207, is essential to improving their defensive efficiency.
Key Players to Watch
Center Jack Hughes has been a standout, contributing 25 goals and 47 assists across 57 games, tallying 72 points. His ability to generate offense will be pivotal. Jesper Bratt, with 20 goals and 48 assists, complements Hughes, providing depth and versatility.
Nico Hischier, recognized for his two-way play, has amassed 26 goals and 36 assists. His defensive prowess and leadership qualities make him an integral part of the Devils’ lineup. Right winger Timo Meier adds physicality with 127 hits, along with 24 goals and 18 assists.
Goaltending Contributions
Jacob Markstrom has been a reliable presence in net with 23 wins and 983 saves. Despite no shutouts, his performance is crucial for the Devils’ playoff aspirations. Backup goaltender Jake Allen also contributes with 16 wins, highlighting the depth in New Jersey’s goaltending department.
The Devils’ goaltending duo will need to maintain strong performances to keep the opposition at bay. Nico Daws, with a single appearance, remains a potential option for future games.
Team Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 2-1 (66.7%)
- SU Last 5: 3-2 (60.0%)
- SU Last 10: 6-4 (60.0%)
- SU All Games: 28-35 (44.4%)
- SU as Favorite: 14-18 (43.8%)
- SU as Underdog: 14-17 (45.2%)
As the Devils prepare for their upcoming game, these insights into their stats and key players provide a comprehensive understanding of their current form and potential strategies. The matchup will test their abilities in both ends of the ice, requiring a cohesive team effort.
Penguins Prepare to Ice the Devils: A Look at Pittsburgh’s Foes
Team Overview
The away team boasts impressive offensive stats this season, ranking second in goals with 277 and third in assists with 473. Their power play has also been effective, netting 56 goals, ranking them fifth in the league. However, they have been less physical, sitting at 28th in hits with 1391.
Defensively, the team has allowed 228 goals against, which ranks them 17th. They have accumulated 1894 saves, indicating that their goaltenders have been kept busy throughout the season. With no shutouts recorded, there are questions about their ability to completely shut down opponents.
Key Players to Watch
Despite their defensive struggles, the away team has several key players who can make a difference. Their top performers have shown skillful playmaking and shooting accuracy, contributing to their high ranking in both goals and assists. Their power play success is primarily driven by their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Look out for their leading goal scorer, who has been instrumental in ensuring their position as the second-highest scoring team. Additionally, their top assist providers have consistently created chances, underlining the team’s offensive depth.
Goaltending Situation
The goaltending situation for the away team is somewhat uncertain, with no shutouts and a middling rank in goals against. The number of saves suggests that their goalies have been tested frequently, which could be a factor in their inconsistent defensive performance.
Their primary goalie will need to be at their best to counter the Penguins’ offensive threats. Maintaining focus and composure will be crucial for them to prevent any lapses that could tilt the game in Pittsburgh’s favor.
Team Strategy
The away team has relied on their offensive prowess to win games, but they will need to tighten up their defense to be successful against the Penguins. Their strategy might focus on maintaining possession and applying pressure through their skilled forwards.
Given their lower ranking in hits and blocks, they will likely focus on positional play and puck control to limit Pittsburgh’s scoring chances. Their effectiveness in executing this game plan will be critical to their success.
Potential Weaknesses
One notable weakness for the away team is their physical play, as indicated by their low hits ranking. This could be exploited by the Penguins, who may look to apply physical pressure to disrupt their rhythm.
Additionally, their goaltending has been shaky at times, which could be a vulnerability if the Penguins are able to generate high-quality scoring chances. The away team will need to improve defensively to mitigate these risks.
Betting Trends
- Overall, they have a 60.0% success rate in straight-up games.
- They perform better as favorites, with a 75.0% win rate.
- On the puckline, they have a strong 65.5% success rate in all games.
- As underdogs, their puckline success is even higher at 65.7%.
- The team has been involved in high-scoring games, with an 80.0% success rate in over/under bets in the last 10 games.
Devils vs Penguins Prediction: ‘Over 6.5’
The Pittsburgh Penguins are currently the second-highest scoring team in the NHL. This recent scoring surge includes an impressive 30 goals in their last five games. With players like Sidney Crosby and Rickard Rakell in top form, their offensive potential remains high.
On the other hand, the New Jersey Devils have shown vulnerability on the defensive end. They’ve allowed 224 goals this season, ranking 13th in the league for goals against. Despite their struggles, they have the capability to put up goals, which could push the total higher.
The Penguins’ recent games have showcased their offensive prowess, and with their playoff aspirations nearly realized, they will likely continue to apply pressure. Considering the Devils’ inconsistent defensive performances, it seems probable that the total will exceed 6.5.
Given these factors, the expectation is for a high-scoring contest. The Penguins’ recent offensive form combined with the Devils’ defensive struggles suggest that the total will go over the set mark.
- Devils vs Penguins Prediction: Over 6.5
- Devils vs Penguins Score: Penguins 5 – Devils 3
