The countdown is on as the New Jersey Devils head into their final four games of the regular season, and while they’ve already secured a playoff spot, momentum is now the name of the game. Coming off a tough loss to the Boston Bruins, the Devils are hoping to close strong—and shake off recent struggles—before facing a familiar postseason foe.
Thanks to a bit of help from around the league, New Jersey is officially locked into third place in the Metropolitan Division. That seals a first-round matchup with the Carolina Hurricanes, the same team that eliminated them in 2023. With the top-seeded Washington Capitals out of reach and the rest of the pack unable to catch up, the road ahead is clear—and it won’t be easy.
Some skeptics are already writing off the Devils, pointing to the absence of key players like Jack Hughes, Dougie Hamilton, and Jonas Siegenthaler. But while the team may not be at full strength, they still have the opportunity to build rhythm, confidence, and chemistry during the final stretch—ingredients that could be critical in turning the tide when the postseason begins.
Goaltending in Focus
One major question mark for the Devils remains between the pipes. Jacob Markstrom showed promise early in the season but has struggled to regain form since returning from injury. His recent performance against Boston reignited concerns, and while defensive lapses contributed, several soft goals left fans uneasy.
With Utica eliminated from AHL playoff contention, expect a few call-ups, possibly including Nico Daws, to bolster the goaltending depth alongside Jake Allen. If Markstrom falters again, the team may need to pivot quickly.
Who Steps Up?
With three home games remaining before a season finale rematch in Boston, the Devils need production from stars like Timo Meier, Nico Hischier, and Jesper Bratt, and gritty net-front presence from players like Stefan Noesen and Dawson Mercer. Offensive consistency and defensive responsibility are key—especially if the Devils hope to contain a Carolina squad that, while dangerous, is far from unbeatable.
The Hurricanes have lost three straight, including a 5-1 defeat to Boston and a shutout at the hands of Buffalo. With both teams fairly evenly matched in goals for and against, this series could come down to which team finds its rhythm first.
History on Their Side?
Let’s not forget: the Devils and Hurricanes split their four-game regular season series, each holding serve on home ice. If New Jersey can defend Prudential Center and steal a game on the road, they’ll put themselves in position to advance.
It’s a tall order, but not an impossible one. Fans still recall the underdog run of the 2012 Devils, who clawed their way to the Stanley Cup Final as a sixth seed. Could the 2025 squad channel that same energy?
There’s no better time than now to find out. With the playoffs looming, these final four games may prove pivotal—not just for standings, but for belief.
What’s Your Take?
Will the Devils benefit from a strong finish heading into their showdown with Carolina? Is momentum in hockey a real edge—or just a myth? Share your thoughts with Explore New Jersey and let us know how confident you are in this team’s playoff chances!
