Flames vs Devils Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NHL Game The Calgary Flames will face the New Jersey Devils in a matchup that promises to be a battle of defensive grit and strategic play. Analyst Todd Cordell of Covers.com has provided a detailed breakdown of the game, focusing on key players and betting trends. Yan Kuznetsov of the Flames is expected to dominate the ice, particularly in terms of shot blocking, while the Devils’ offensive struggles could create opportunities for the Flames to capitalize. Kuznetsov, a key defenseman for the Flames, has been a standout performer in recent weeks, ranking seventh among defensemen in shot blocks over the past 15 games. With the departure of MacKenzie Weegar at the trade deadline, Kuznetsov’s role has expanded, and his ability to disrupt the Devils’ attack is a major factor in the Flames’ chances. Cordell notes that Kuznetsov has exceeded the 1.5 blocked shots threshold in 63% of his games since the start of the season, making him a strong contender for the Flames’ victory. The Devils, meanwhile, have struggled offensively, ranking 30th or worse in goals per game this season. Their defense, however, has been relatively strong, placing them sixth in shot attempts over the last 10 games. This balance could lead to a high-scoring contest, but the Flames’ defensive depth and Kuznetsov’s presence may tilt the momentum in their favor. For bettors, the game offers several key lines. The moneyline favors the Devils at -171, while the Flames are listed at +150. The puck line shows the Devils as slight favorites (-1.5, +153) and the Flames as underdogs (+1.5, -175). The over/under for total goals is set at 5.5, with even money (-110) on both sides.#calgary_flames #new_jersey_devils #prudential_center #todd_cordell #yan_kuznetsov
New Jersey Devils Host Calgary Flames in Key Regular-Season Clash The New Jersey Devils will host the Calgary Flames in a crucial matchup as part of their ongoing seven-game homestand. Puck drop is set for 7:12 p.m. ET Thursday at Prudential Center. The game marks the fifth installment of the Devils’ homestand and the second and final meeting between the teams this season. The Devils, with a record of 32-30-2, aim to extend their playoff hopes, while the Flames, at 25-32-7, are looking to secure a strong finish to their season despite missing the postseason. Head coach Sheldon Keefe confirmed that goaltender Jacob Markstrom will start for the Devils, despite the team’s morning skate being shortened due to Markstrom’s preference to avoid early-game skating. “We gave him the option,” Keefe said, “and he chose to stay off.” The Devils’ lineup features adjustments, including the reuniting of Jesper Bratt with Jack Hughes and the return of Arseny Gritsyuk to play with Cody Glass and Lenni Hameenaho. “It’s a little bit of an adjustment,” Glass said, “but we’ve played with Gritsyuk before, so we know what he brings. Communication is key.” Glass also praised Hameenaho’s growth, noting the rookie’s adaptability to NHL defense. The Devils’ morning skate included all players except Markstrom, who opted out. The team’s practice schedule has allowed for significant preparation during their break, with Keefe highlighting the value of extended practice time. “We’ve been able to get some good practice time,” he said, “and I’m hopeful that will continue to be productive. Between coming out of the break and the gaps between games, I feel we’ve practiced more in these last few weeks than we have virtually the entire season.#calgary_flames #new_jersey_devils #sheldon_keefe #jesper_bratt #prudential_center
