The New Jersey Devils, currently holding a record of 37-28-7, will face off against the Chicago Blackhawks, who sit at 21-41-9, in an upcoming matchup. The Devils are looking to break a three-game losing streak, while the Blackhawks are coming off a recent victory, snapping a longer stretch of poor performance.
In terms of individual statistics, New Jersey’s Jesper Bratt leads the team with 82 points, while Chicago’s Connor Bedard has contributed 56 points this season. Both teams are dealing with significant injuries, with key players like Jack Hughes and Dougie Hamilton sidelined for the Devils, and Colton Dach and Alec Martinez uncertain for the Blackhawks. This game presents an opportunity for both teams to shift their momentum as the season progresses.
The matchup is set for March 26, 2025, at 7:30 PM ET at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. The game will be broadcast on TNT, TruTV, MAX, TVAS2, CHSN, and ESPN+. Fans can also listen to the action on the Devils Hockey Network.
The New Jersey Devils are entering this game after a tough loss to the Vancouver Canucks, where they fell in a shootout 4-3. Despite a valiant effort, including a power-play goal by Timo Meier and a go-ahead goal from Erik Haula, the Devils could not hold on to their lead. They allowed the Canucks to tie the game in the final minute, leading to the shootout where they ultimately lost.
On the other hand, the Chicago Blackhawks recently snapped a seven-game losing streak with a 7-4 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers. The Blackhawks showcased a powerful offensive performance, with multiple players contributing to the scoreline, including Patrick Maroon, Joe Veleno, and Connor Bedard. This win provided a much-needed boost for a team that has struggled throughout the season.
In terms of player performances, Timo Meier has been a standout for the Devils, scoring four goals in his last five games. Since returning from injury, Nico Hischier has also made a significant impact with 14 points in his last ten games, including six in the last five. The Devils are hoping these players can continue their scoring touch against the Blackhawks.
For Chicago, Ilya Mikheyev has been heating up as well, scoring five goals and eight points in March. Tyler Bertuzzi is also making his mark, with two goals and four assists in his last four games. The Blackhawks are looking to build on their recent success and play spoiler against a desperate Devils team.
In terms of injuries, the Devils are missing key players, including Jack Hughes, who was placed on Long-term Injured Reserve and is expected to be ready for training camp next season. Dougie Hamilton is also out for the remainder of the season. The Blackhawks will be without Jason Dickinson, who is out for the season due to a wrist injury, while Colton Dach and Alec Martinez are day-to-day and uncertain for this matchup.
As the Devils prepare for this crucial game, they find themselves in a tight race for playoff positioning. They currently hold a seven-point lead over the New York Islanders for the third spot in the Metropolitan Division, but with ten games remaining, every point is vital. The Devils have lost four of their last five games and need to turn their fortunes around quickly.
Meanwhile, the Blackhawks are already eliminated from playoff contention and are playing for pride at this point in the season. They are looking to capitalize on the Devils' struggles and play the role of spoiler. Chicago's recent win against Philadelphia has given them a glimmer of hope, and they will aim to build on that momentum.
The last time these two teams met was on December 14, 2024, when the Devils secured a 4-1 victory. In that game, New Jersey scored four unanswered goals in the third period, showcasing their potential when they find their rhythm. The Devils will be hoping for a similar result this time around.
As the game approaches, both teams are keenly aware of the stakes involved. The Devils need a win to maintain their playoff hopes, while the Blackhawks are looking to assert themselves and end their season on a high note. With key players on both sides capable of making game-changing plays, fans can expect an exciting matchup at the United Center.
In summary, the New Jersey Devils are set to face the Chicago Blackhawks on March 26, 2025, at the United Center. The Devils are desperate for a win to stop their losing streak and secure their playoff position, while the Blackhawks are looking to build on their recent success and play spoiler. With both teams dealing with injuries and the stakes high, it promises to be a thrilling encounter.
