The New Jersey Devils are set to conclude their regular season schedule with a matchup against the Detroit Red Wings at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. This game, which will be broadcast on TNT, marks a significant moment for both teams as they prepare for the playoffs and reflect on their seasons.
For the Devils, this game is largely about health and readiness for the postseason. Already locked into a first-round matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes, the Devils have little to gain from a high-intensity game against the Red Wings. With key players sidelined—including star center Jack Hughes, who is out for the season, and defenseman Jonas Siegenthaler, who hasn’t played since January—head coach Sheldon Keefe has emphasized the importance of finishing the season healthy. “I’d be lying if I didn’t say the most important thing is finishing the season healthy,” Keefe said, indicating that he may rest several quality players in this final game.
On the other hand, the Detroit Red Wings are looking to finish their season on a high note after a disappointing campaign that has seen them eliminated from playoff contention for the ninth consecutive year. Despite their struggles, the Red Wings have shown signs of life recently, winning four of their last six games under head coach Todd McLellan. They are eager to build momentum and end the season positively.
The Red Wings come into the game with a record of 38-35-7, while the Devils stand at 41-32-7. Detroit’s recent form includes impressive victories over playoff teams like the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Dallas Stars, showcasing their potential to compete even without playoff stakes.
One of the standout players for the Red Wings has been captain Dylan Larkin, who is on the verge of securing his fourth consecutive 30-goal season and the fifth of his career. Larkin has been heating up lately, producing six points over his last six games, including a strong performance against the Lightning. His ability to find the net against the Devils is notable, as he has recorded 12 points in the last nine meetings between the two teams. With the Devils struggling defensively, having allowed four or more goals in three of their last four games, Larkin will be looking to capitalize on this opportunity.
In addition to Larkin, Lucas Raymond has also been a key contributor, recording assists in 46% of Detroit’s games this season and 61% of their victories. With the odds favoring Detroit at -135, the Red Wings are expected to take advantage of a Devils team that may not be playing at full strength.
As the puck drops at 7:30 p.m. ET, fans will be watching closely to see how both teams approach this contest. The Red Wings, eager to finish their season positively, will be looking to build on their recent success, while the Devils aim to enter the playoffs with a sense of momentum despite their injury woes.
The matchup holds significance beyond just the final score, as it represents a chance for the Red Wings to gain some much-needed confidence heading into the offseason. Meanwhile, the Devils are focused on maintaining their competitive edge as they prepare for a playoff run, hoping that their goaltending and timely scoring will be enough to make an impact.
In the betting market, the Red Wings are favored due to their recent form and the Devils’ injury concerns. The same-game parlay options are enticing, including bets on the Red Wings moneyline (-130), the total goals over 5.5 (-115), and Larkin to have over 2.5 shots on goal (-110). With both teams having something to prove, this game promises to be an exciting conclusion to the regular season.
As the NHL regular season draws to a close, the focus will shift to the playoffs, where the Devils hope to make a mark after a two-year absence. The Red Wings, meanwhile, will be looking to regroup and come back stronger next season. The outcome of this game may not change their fates significantly, but it could provide a glimpse of what’s to come for both franchises.
