Tonight, the New Jersey Devils (22-18-2) face off against the New York Islanders (23-15-4) at UBS Arena on Long Island, kicking off a road trip for the Devils. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 PM EST, and the game will be broadcast live on ESPN+.
The Islanders are coming off a 4-3 overtime victory against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Matthew Schaefer scored two goals in that game, including the game-winner. Adam Pelech and Emil Heineman also contributed goals. Goaltender David Rittich stopped 18 of 21 shots.
Ilya Sorokin is set to start in goal for the Islanders after missing seven games due to injury. Prior to his injury, Sorokin had a 12-10-2 record with a 2.55 GAA, a .910 SV%, and three shutouts. David Rittich stepped up in Sorokin's absence, going 4-2-1 with a 2.30 GAA, a .911 SV%, and one shutout in his last seven games. Coach Patrick Roy expressed confidence in both goalies, noting Rittich's strong play allowed them to ease Sorokin back in.
The Devils are coming into this game as the favorite with -120 odds to win outright, while the Islanders are at +100. The puck line is set at -1.5 for the Devils, with an over/under of 5.5 goals.
Key statistics to consider: The Devils have scored 111 goals this season (2.6 per game), ranking them 28th in the league. The Islanders have scored 116 goals (2.8 per game), placing them 22nd. Defensively, the Islanders are strong, allowing 116 goals (2.8 per game), which is seventh-best in the NHL. The Devils have allowed 124 goals (3.0 per game), ranking them 12th. New Jersey's power play operates at 20.75%, while the Islanders' power play is at 15.91%.
One factor that could influence the game is the status of Islanders' forward Bo Horvat, who will be absent. The Devils will need to capitalize on their power play opportunities, while the Islanders will rely on their penalty kill. Ilya Sorokin's performance in his return will also be a key factor.
The Islanders and Devils are closely matched in the standings, separated by just four points. This is the last home game for the Islanders before they head out on a seven-game road trip.
