New Jersey Devils vs Toronto Maple Leafs Picks and Predictions December 10th 2024

Maple Leafs Aim to Rebound as They Visit Devils in Newark

The Toronto Maple Leafs will attempt to avoid a three-game losing streak when they face off against the New Jersey Devils on Tuesday in Newark, N.J. Both teams are eager to regain their footing after recent losses derailed their momentum.

Toronto Maple Leafs: Finding Consistency Amid Challenges

After a hot stretch where Toronto won seven of eight games, the team has stumbled in its last two outings. Following a 3-1 loss to the Washington Capitals on Friday, the Maple Leafs fell 5-2 to the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday.

Mitch Marner and Auston Matthews, the team’s offensive cornerstones, combined for four points against Pittsburgh. Marner continues to lead the team in assists (28) and points (38), while Matthews’ two assists showcased his playmaking ability. However, lapses in discipline and special teams play proved costly, with Toronto conceding two power-play goals.

The return of Max Pacioretty to the top line brought mixed results. While he contributed physically, his penalties in the second period disrupted Toronto’s momentum.

Key Areas to Watch:

• Special Teams: Toronto’s penalty kill faltered against Pittsburgh and will need to improve to stifle New Jersey’s dynamic power play.
• Top Line Chemistry: Matthews, Marner, and Pacioretty will need to click at even strength while avoiding costly mistakes.

New Jersey Devils: Looking to Rekindle Offensive Spark

The Devils were shut out for the fifth time this season in a 4-0 loss to the Colorado Avalanche on Sunday. Despite opportunities, including two disallowed goals from Jesper Bratt and Timo Meier, the Devils couldn’t capitalize. Former New Jersey goaltender Scott Wedgewood was a thorn in their side, denying all 27 shots he faced.

Jesper Bratt leads the Devils with 37 points (13 goals, 24 assists), followed by Jack Hughes (35 points) and captain Nico Hischier, who tops the team with 15 goals. However, recent struggles have underscored the team’s reliance on speed and transition offense. When opponents neutralize their rush, the Devils have struggled to find alternative scoring methods.

What They Need to Do:

• Battle for Puck Control: New Jersey must win puck battles and create second-chance opportunities to overcome disciplined defensive systems like Toronto’s.
• Generate Energy: Captain Nico Hischier emphasized the need for the Devils to bring more energy, especially at home.

Check out NHL Metropolitan Division Odds & Predictions for detailed insights and analysis.

Head-to-Head: Previous Meeting Recap

In their first matchup this season on Oct. 10, Toronto claimed a 4-2 victory in New Jersey. Max Pacioretty and Mitch Marner were among the Maple Leafs’ scorers, while Jesper Bratt and Timo Meier found the net for the Devils. Goaltending and special teams are likely to play pivotal roles again in this matchup.

What’s at Stake

Both teams are at critical junctures. Toronto looks to avoid matching its longest losing streak of the season, while New Jersey seeks to rebound and rekindle the offensive prowess that saw them win six of their last eight games before the Avalanche shut them out.

With both clubs vying for consistency, this game could set the tone for their upcoming stretches.