The New Jersey Devils are set to conclude their West Coast road trip tonight against the Utah Mammoth at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City. Puck drop is scheduled for 9:00 PM EST.
Team Records and Standings
The Devils enter the game with a 19-14-1 record, placing them fifth in the Metropolitan Division. They are coming off a 2-1 shootout victory against the Vegas Golden Knights. The Utah Mammoth have a 17-16-3 record and currently sit fourth in the Central Division. In their most recent game, the Mammoth defeated the Detroit Red Wings 4-1.
Recent Performance
New Jersey has had an inconsistent stretch, alternating between wins and losses in their last six games. Prior to their win against the Golden Knights, they suffered a 2-1 loss to the Vancouver Canucks but managed a 4-1 victory over the Anaheim Ducks. Utah has won three of their last four games, demonstrating a strong offensive performance by scoring at least four goals in each of those wins.
Offensive and Defensive Statistics
The Devils have scored an average of 2.82 goals per game, while allowing 3.06 goals against. Their power play operates at 20.9%, and their penalty kill succeeds 75.8% of the time. Jesper Bratt leads the team with 6 goals and 23 assists, while Nico Hischier has contributed 10 goals and 16 assists.
The Mammoth have scored an average of 3.08 goals per game and allowed 2.94 goals against. Their power play operates at 15.5%, and their penalty kill is effective 83.2% of the time. Nick Schmaltz leads Utah with 12 goals and 19 assists, while Clayton Keller has 11 goals and 19 assists.
Goaltending Matchup
Jacob Markstrom is the projected starting goalie for the Devils. He holds an 8-7-1 record with a 3.56 goals-against average and a .874 save percentage. Jake Allen earned first star in the Devil's most recent game against the Golden Knights, saving 36 shots. Karel Vejmelka is expected to start in goal for Utah, holding a 15-9-2 record with a 2.72 goals-against average and a .896 save percentage.
Key Players to Watch
For the Devils, Jesper Bratt's playmaking abilities will be crucial. Additionally, Dawson Mercer has been a consistent goal scorer. For the Mammoth, Nick Schmaltz and Clayton Keller will be key offensive drivers.
Betting Trends
Several betting trends are noteworthy: * The Devils have lost nine of their last 10 night games following an overtime win. * The favorites have won eight of the Mammoth's last nine games. * The Devils have failed to cover the puck line in 10 of their last 11 road games following a road win. * The home team has covered the puck line in four of the Mammoth's last five games.
Injury Report Key Devils players, including Arseny Gritsyuk, Simon Nemec, Timo Meier and Evgenii Dadonov are currently on injured reserve.
Prediction
Although both teams are in the middle of rough stretches, Utah's strong home record and defensive capabilities give them an edge in tonight's matchup.
