The New Jersey Devils travel to Salt Lake City on Thursday, December 19, 2025, aiming to capture their fourth win in six games as they face the Utah Mammoth to conclude a brief two-game Western road swing. Coming off a hard-fought victory in Las Vegas, the Devils hope to carry forward the momentum built by disciplined play and a renewed focus on process over outcome.
After defeating the Golden Knights 2-1 in a shootout, head coach Sheldon Keefe emphasized the importance of sticking to team habits and execution rather than fixating solely on the scoreboard. “Whether it’s five-on-five, penalty kill, or power play, you want to put forth something you can believe in and duplicate and build upon,” Keefe said. The team’s aggressive yet controlled approach was evident on both special teams and five-on-five play in Vegas, setting the tone for tonight’s matchup against a Mammoth squad known for strong transitions and home-ice competitiveness.
Forward Jesper Bratt noted that the two days between games allowed the team to refocus and reestablish their identity on the ice. “It’s about doing the right things consistently. The way we started in Vegas was encouraging and something we can replicate,” Bratt said. The Devils’ power play, though unsuccessful in scoring, created momentum early and provided confidence that translated into five-on-five situations. Bratt also highlighted the team’s improved penalty kill, noting the swagger and energy that come with effective defensive execution.
The neutral zone will be critical against Utah, a team that excels in shot differential and quick transitions. Keefe stressed the importance of managing the middle of the ice. “When we move through the neutral zone effectively, we can tilt the ice and activate our forecheck or generate rush opportunities,” he explained. Bratt added that strong forward structure and readiness to transition quickly are essential to stripping pucks and launching counterattacks.
Injuries remain a factor for the Devils. Simon Nemec is sidelined with a lower-body issue, while Luke Hughes and Nemec lead the team in points among defensemen with 18 each. Nico Hischier, Dawson Mercer, and Jack Hughes are the team’s top goal scorers, with Hughes returning from injury having already scored 10 goals in 17 games. Defenseman Brett Pesce returned in Las Vegas, providing stability to a blueline impacted by injuries.
Utah presents its own challenges. The Mammoth, tied for the final wild card spot in the Western Conference, have won three of their last four games, including a commanding 4-1 victory in Detroit. Karel Vejmelka leads the league in wins and ranks second in time on ice, making him a formidable presence in goal. Offensively, Dylan Guenther has been red-hot, tallying five goals in his last five games, while Nick Schmaltz continues to lead Utah in overall points.
Defensively, the Mammoth allow the second-fewest shots per game in the league and boast a solid penalty kill at 83.2 percent, though their power play ranks near the bottom at 15.5 percent. Former Devils John Marino and Vitek Vanecek bring additional storylines to the matchup, with Marino thriving this season and Vanecek struggling to find consistency between the pipes.
The Devils have a history of success against Utah, winning both encounters last season, including a 3-0 victory at Prudential Center. Maintaining consistent habits, managing the neutral zone, and executing under pressure will be key as New Jersey seeks to build on the energy from Las Vegas and stay competitive in the Metropolitan Division playoff race.
For fans looking to keep up with the team, New Jersey Devils coverage offers updates, player statistics, and detailed game previews. Tonight’s matchup provides another opportunity for the Devils to solidify their identity, demonstrate resilience on the road, and push toward a strong December finish.
