The New Jersey Devils faced off against the Columbus Blue Jackets on March 17, 2025, and came away with a hard-fought victory, beating the Blue Jackets 2-1. This win was particularly sweet for the Devils, as they were rebounding from a demoralizing 7-3 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins just two days prior. Jake Allen, who has been stellar as of late, was the backbone of this victory, stopping 45 shots throughout the game, including 23 saves alone during the intense third period.
The Devils entered this contest at 36-26-6, with the goal of improving their chances for the playoffs, which had already been raised to just under 97% following their previous win against the Blue Jackets last week. After their victory on Monday, the Devils' magic number stands at 11—meaning they need either 11 wins to clinch or rely on losses from the current teams just outside playoff contention.
The game itself was not without its moments of uncertainty. The first period showcased the Devils' struggles, but they managed to regroup and put themselves back on track. This was particularly important after suffering from lapses, like those experienced against the Penguins. A strong defensive structure led by Allen allowed the Devils to capitalize on their opportunities, which proved to be the difference.
Head coach Lindy Ruff expressed relief post-game, stating, "It was great to see Jake step up and help us secure this win. After the tough loss, we needed someone to anchor the back end, and he delivered." With this victory, the Devils can breathe more easily as they look forward to their upcoming schedule, where they will face weaker opponents at home.
Looking at the standings, the competition has fallen behind the Devils. The Pittsburgh Penguins, who have stayed close, now find themselves eight points back following their loss to the Edmonton Oilers. Meanwhile, rivals like the Montreal Canadiens and the Detroit Red Wings seem unlikely to upend the Devils’ aspirations, as they too are grappling with inconsistencies.
The projected lineup for the Devils against the Blue Jackets included several key players returning from scratches, like Erik Haula, who had missed the previous game against the Penguins. The team's strategy seemed effective, with Timo Meier, Nico Hischier, and Stefan Noesen combining well as the first line. With new acquisitions like Cody Glass and Daniel Sprong, Ruff's lineup seemed to find its rhythm, making the most of their offensive capabilities.
Ruff added, "We’re getting contributions from all lines and the depth we’ve built is starting to show. The guys are gelling together, and I’m optimistic as we approach the playoffs." This depth has been invaluable, especially with the Devils still missing Dougie Hamilton due to injury.
Defensively, the pairing adjustments made due to Hamilton's absence have shown promise. Simon Nemec, for example, has been looked at more critically as the playoffs inch closer. The team hopes to solidify its defensive pairings soon, which is an integral part of their playoff plans.
What stands out about the Devils following their latest victories is not just the increasing playoff chances but the resolve displayed by players like Jake Allen. With whispering doubts concerning who would take the reins as the main goaltender come playoff time, his performance has squelched concerns, pushing him forward as the likely candidate. After shutting down 23 shots against the Blue Jackets, he reinforced his status as the pivotal player the Devils need.
"He’s had our backs this season and I hope we can ride the momentum he’s building," said Hischier. This young leader knows how much weight rests on their shoulders as they head down the final stretch of the season.
Following the Blue Jackets matchup, the Devils will play their next three games at home, aiming to secure additional points. With their current standings and the struggles of teams around them, earning wins against mediocre opponents could close out their season on the right note and solidify their playoff position.
Fans are hopeful as tickets for the upcoming home games have been selling fast, with excitement brewing for what the playoffs could bring. With less than ten games left before the playoffs, the atmosphere is electric.
When it all narrows down, it seems the Devils are on the right track for postseason success, provided they continue to build upon their win against Columbus. The strong showing from players like Allen could set the stage for what they hope will be playoff glory.
One thing is clear: with the right mindset and focus, this season's Devils team has the potential to go deep. The victories, especially this close one, are the moral boost they need to stay engaged as they prepare for the challenges of the playoffs.
