Anaheim Ducks vs New Jersey Devils Predictions

New Jersey has the clearer case to win

Inside The Rink, a hockey news and statistics site, lists New Jersey at 5-4-0 and Anaheim at 4-5-0 entering Thursday’s game at Prudential Center. The Devils have scored 3.22 goals per game to the Ducks’ 2.89 and hold a 51.3% to 43.2% faceoff advantage.

Anaheim has lost four straight, while New Jersey enters with one consecutive win. Those figures favor the Devils, but they don’t make a -198 moneyline attractive by themselves.

Anaheim’s special teams limit New Jersey’s betting appeal

The Ducks have converted 22.6% of their power plays, compared with 20.0% for the Devils. Anaheim also owns a 78.8% penalty-kill rate, while New Jersey is at 70.8%.

New Jersey has allowed 3.33 goals per game, slightly more than Anaheim’s 3.22. That defensive record and Anaheim’s special-teams advantage make it difficult to justify paying a heavy favorite’s price.

Prediction and betting outlook

New Jersey is the likely winner, but no starting goalie, injury or lineup information is confirmed. With those important variables unresolved, the Devils’ -198 moneyline is a pass. The puck line and 6.5 total also lack enough support for a wager.