Matchup: New Jersey Devils at Tampa Bay Lightning
Date: Saturday, November 18, 2025Time: 7:00 PM EST
Venue: Amalie Arena, Tampa, FL
Moneyline Odds: Devils +140, Lightning -170
Game Preview
The New Jersey Devils travel to Tampa Bay to face the Lightning in a matchup between two Eastern Conference contenders dealing with significant injuries. The Devils have been in excellent form recently, winning four of their last five games. However, they are now facing the daunting task of playing without their superstar center, Jack Hughes.
The Devils announced on November 15 that Hughes underwent successful finger surgery and is expected to be sidelined for the next eight weeks. His absence is a monumental blow to a team that relies heavily on his dynamic playmaking and offensive production. New Jersey will need its other top players to step up significantly to fill the void against a formidable opponent.
The Tampa Bay Lightning are also navigating their own injury issues. Key forward Nick Paul is considered “more than day-to-day” with an upper-body injury, and the team has been dealing with various ailments to other key players. Despite this, the Lightning remain a dangerous team, especially on home ice. As the -170 betting favorites, oddsmakers are confident in Tampa’s ability to handle business at Amalie Arena.
Prediction
While the Devils have shown strong form recently, the loss of Jack Hughes cannot be overstated. He is the engine of their offense, and his absence will be felt immediately. Facing a veteran-heavy, battle-tested team like the Lightning on the road is a tough challenge even at full strength.
Tampa Bay has the experience and depth to exploit a Devils lineup that is now missing its most important player. Expect the Lightning to control the pace of the game and capitalize on their home-ice advantage. While New Jersey will put up a fight, the loss of Hughes is too significant to overcome in this spot.
Prediction: Tampa Bay Lightning to win.****Sources:
New Jersey Devils Injury Report and Status 2025-26 – CBS Sports
New Jersey Devils Injury Status – ESPN
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