Thu Mar 13 23:10:00 UTC 2025: **Devils Host High-Scoring Oilers in Crucial Matchup**
NEWARK, NJ – The New Jersey Devils will face a significant test tonight as they host the high-powered Edmonton Oilers at Prudential Center. The game, presented by Jaeger Lumber and broadcast on ESPN+, pits the Devils’ playoff push against the Oilers’ star-studded offense, led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
The Devils will see the return of defenseman Simon Nemec, who has been a healthy scratch for the past two games. Nemec, looking to regain consistency after an up-and-down season, expressed his determination to improve on his previous performance. Head coach Sheldon Keefe acknowledged Nemec’s potential but emphasized the need for consistent play.
The Oilers’ dynamic duo, McDavid and Draisaitl, pose a formidable challenge. Draisaitl currently sits second in NHL scoring with 97 points, while McDavid is fourth with 82. Devils defenseman Johnathan Kovacevic highlighted the need for a team effort to contain their speed and offensive prowess, focusing on controlling the Oilers’ centers and minimizing penalties against their potent power play (26.6% success rate).
The Devils enter the game on a two-game winning streak, their first since late January, boosting their position in the Metropolitan Division. They currently sit third, six points behind the Carolina Hurricanes. A victory tonight would extend their winning streak and further solidify their playoff hopes.
The Oilers, meanwhile, are coming off a loss to the Buffalo Sabres and are seeking to maintain their playoff positioning in the Pacific Division, currently holding second place, just one point ahead of the Los Angeles Kings. Their recent 3-2 loss highlights the challenge the Devils face. Remarkably, New Jersey is one of only four teams to shut out Edmonton this season.
Adding intrigue to the matchup, Devils newcomer Cody Glass has made an immediate impact, contributing three points in his first two games. For the Oilers, Leon Draisaitl continues his impressive season, extending his point streak to a career-high 15 games.
Both teams will be dealing with injuries. The Devils will be without Jack Hughes (shoulder), Dougie Hamilton (undisclosed), and Jonas Siegenthaler (undisclosed), while the Oilers list several players as day-to-day or on injured reserve, including Klingberg, Ekholm, Kane and Regula. The game promises a thrilling encounter between two teams vying for playoff success.
First Piper 