GAME PREVIEW: NEW JERSEY DEVILS VS. VANCOUVER CANUCKS
New Jersey Devils (37-28-6) vs. Vancouver Canucks (32-26-12)
Date: March 24, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Location: Prudential Center, Newark, NJ
TV: ESPN+, Hulu
Radio: Devils Hockey Network
Presented by: Complete Mechanical Solutions
Setting the Stage
The New Jersey Devils conclude their three-game homestand as they host the Vancouver Canucks in a pivotal late-season matchup. Both teams are fighting for playoff positioning, making tonight’s contest crucial in the final stretch of the regular season.
The Devils look to bounce back from a 3-2 loss to the Ottawa Senators, while Vancouver, two spots out of the Western Conference Wild Card race, will be desperate to keep its postseason hopes alive. The last meeting between these teams saw New Jersey dominate in a 6-0 shutout on October 30 in Vancouver.
Women’s Empowerment Night at The Rock
Tonight’s game is also Women’s Empowerment Night, a special evening dedicated to celebrating the achievements of women in sports and beyond. The Devils are proud to honor female athletes, leaders, and trailblazers who have made significant contributions to hockey and the broader community. The night will feature special guests, in-game tributes, and recognition of local women making a difference. Fans can also look forward to exclusive Women’s Empowerment merchandise and initiatives aimed at inspiring the next generation of female leaders.
Projected Lineup Changes & Key Players
- Forward Ondrej Palat is expected to return after missing two games with an undisclosed injury.
- Curtis Lazar and Nathan Bastian will be scratched, with Justin Dowling slotting into the lineup.
- Goaltender Jacob Markstrom will start against his former team.
Head coach Sheldon Keefe emphasized Palat’s leadership, stating, “When Palat speaks, guys listen. He helps settle the group and provides consistency in our game.”
Devils Looking for Consistency
New Jersey has had an up-and-down stretch, losing three of its last four games. With only 11 regular-season games remaining, every point matters. Captain Nico Hischier stressed the importance of regaining their form, saying, “We just have to get back to playing the right way and believing in each other.”
Hughes vs. Hughes
While superstar Jack Hughes remains out with a shoulder injury, fans will still witness a Hughes family showdown as Luke (New Jersey) takes on his brother Quinn (Vancouver). Luke noted that he enjoyed some family time earlier in the week, but all focus now shifts to the game.
Scouting the Canucks
Vancouver enters tonight’s contest having won six of its last 11 games (6-4-1). The team is in a critical battle for a playoff spot and will be missing key contributors Elias Pettersson and Nils Hoglander, who were both injured against the Rangers. The Canucks’ offense is led by Quinn Hughes (51 assists, 67 points) and Brock Boeser (23 goals). In net, Kevin Lankinen has stepped up with a career-high 24 wins.
By the Numbers
Devils Leaders
- Goals: Nico Hischier (31)
- Assists: Jesper Bratt (61)
- Points: Jesper Bratt (81)
Canucks Leaders
- Goals: Brock Boeser, Jake DeBrusk (23)
- Assists: Quinn Hughes (51)
- Points: Quinn Hughes (67)
What’s at Stake
The Devils sit third in the Metropolitan Division with a six-point cushion over the Rangers but need wins to solidify their playoff positioning. Meanwhile, the Canucks are in a desperate fight for a postseason berth. Expect a high-intensity battle as both teams look to secure a much-needed victory.
Puck drops at 7:00 PM ET—don’t miss the action!
