The New Jersey Devils will host the Edmonton Oilers on Thursday, March 13th, at the Prudential Center. Let’s break down the matchup and make a prediction.

Oilers: Close Games and Inconsistent Play

Edmonton has been involved in tightly contested games, with three of their last matches decided by a single goal. Most recently, they secured a 5-4 win over the Dallas Stars, but fell 3-2 to the Buffalo Sabres, struggling in the second period despite a solid offensive effort. Goaltender Stuart Skinner saved 20 of 23 shots in the loss, and his performance will be critical moving forward. The Oilers average 3.23 goals per game but concede 2.94, while averaging 32 shots on goal. With Mattias Janmark uncertain due to illness, the Oilers need a fast start to avoid playing catch-up.

Devils: Strong Defense and Solid Form

The Devils come into this game riding a two-game win streak. They defeated the Philadelphia Flyers 3-1 and the Columbus Blue Jackets 5-3, with Jesper Bratt contributing a goal and two assists. New Jersey’s defense ranks second in the NHL, allowing just 2.53 goals per game, which will be crucial in this matchup. While the absence of Jack Hughes is significant, goaltender Jacob Markstrom has been steady, posting a 22-12-5 record with a 2.36 goals-against average. However, the Devils have lost three of the last four games Markstrom has started.

Key Betting Trends

• The Oilers have struggled as road favorites against Metropolitan Division teams, losing four straight.
• New Jersey has been successful as underdogs on Thursdays, winning four of the last five.
• The Oilers have failed to cover the puck line in their last seven games as road favorites following a road loss.

Prediction

The Devils have been impressive defensively and have the advantage of playing at home. With Edmonton’s recent inconsistency and struggles in close games, New Jersey is well-positioned to capitalize. Expect the Devils to emerge with a win on the money line.