New Jersey Devils Face Toronto Maple Leafs: Game Preview
Tonight, the New Jersey Devils will face off against the Toronto Maple Leafs in what promises to be an exciting matchup. The game marks the Devils’ sixth contest of the season, where they aim to extend their winning streak to five games, following a strong start with a 4-1 record. Conversely, the Maple Leafs are looking to recover from a disappointing overtime loss to the Seattle Kraken earlier this week.
Devils’ Form and Key Players
The New Jersey Devils last recorded a four-game winning streak from January 7 to 16, 2023, when they achieved a five-game run. Currently, they are riding momentum after defeating both the reigning Stanley Cup Champions and the Western Conference Champions this season. Jesper Bratt leads the Devils with seven points, contributing at least one point in every game. He has scored three goals so far, tied for the team lead.
- Jack Hughes: Scoring three goals in the last two games, displaying elite skill.
- Brenden Dillon: Expressed team commitment to a strong penalty kill.
Goaltending arrangements for the Devils include Jake Allen, who will be starting, backed up by Nico Daws. Daws was called up after Jacob Markstrom was placed on injured reserve due to a lower-body injury.
Injury Updates
New Jersey faces several injury concerns:
- Dadonov (hand) – month-to-month
- Kovacevic (knee) – month-to-month
- Noesen (groin) – day-to-day
- Markstrom (lower body) – week-to-week
Maple Leafs Struggles and Strengths
The Toronto Maple Leafs come into this game with a record of 3-2-1, concluding a five-game homestand. Their latest match ended in a 4-3 overtime defeat against the Nashville Predators. Goaltender Anthony Stolarz voiced frustration after that loss but later emphasized his positive outlook on the team’s potential and their goal of winning the Stanley Cup.
- William Nylander: Leading the team with 11 points (2 goals, 9 assists).
- Auston Matthews: Scoring four goals early this season.
Despite their ups and downs this season, Nylander noted that the team’s camaraderie remains strong, which is crucial as they look to improve their performance.
Upcoming Encounters
This matchup marks the first of three encounters between the Devils and the Maple Leafs this season, with the next games scheduled for December 30 and March 4. Current betting odds suggest that the Devils enter as the underdogs. Toronto ranks third in goals scored this season, while New Jersey has netted 19 goals.
The puck drops at 7 p.m. ET and fans can catch the game streaming on ESPN+. Both teams are eager for victory tonight, with Toronto seeking a rebound and New Jersey looking to maintain its winning momentum.
