The Devils kick off a crucial five-game homestand tonight as they near the midpoint of the season, facing the NHL’s newest expansion team, the Seattle Kraken.
New Jersey has encountered an unusual trend this season, struggling more on home ice compared to their success on the road. The Devils hold a record of 6-5-2 at the Prudential Center, while they thrive with an 11-4-0 mark away from home. This pattern has persisted for the past few seasons, puzzling the team.
At home, the Devils often fall into the trap of playing a flashy, high-risk style, attempting intricate passes that frequently fail to connect. On the road, however, they embrace a simpler, more direct approach. The team must break this habit during this homestand to capitalize on their home-ice advantage.
Luckily enough, the Devils enter this stretch on a strong note, posting a 12-5-0 record over their last 17 games played. The team’s “Big 3”,— Jack Hughes, Jesper Bratt, and Nico Hischier—has played a significant part in the team’s recent success.
The three players have combined for 64 points in their past 17 games played. If these three continue their dynamic play, the Devils should surge in front of their home crowd.
Seattle, meanwhile, arrives in New Jersey after an impressive 5-2 win last night over the New York Islanders. However, the Kraken are 0-4-0 in games when they are playing in the second half of a back-to-back. Fatigue likely contributes to their poor results in these specific games, and the Devils should seize this opportunity.
In net, Jacob Markstrom looks set to start for New Jersey after a stellar performance against the Rangers Monday night stopping 39-of-40 shots he faced. For Seattle, Phillip Grubaeur is expected to get the nod, though he has struggled this season with a .862 save percentage and only one win in eight starts.
The Devils aim to deliver an exciting performance in front of their home crowd, eager to capitalize on a Seattle team that has yet to find consistency.
Puck drop is at 7:00 p.m. ET.
