Devils Aim to Continue Dominance vs. Short-Handed Canucks
The New Jersey Devils are set to host the Vancouver Canucks on Monday, aiming to extend their impressive dominance in the rivalry. The Canucks are fighting for their playoff lives amid a rash of injuries, while the Devils are looking to solidify their postseason position in the Metropolitan Division.
For the latest updates on division standings and odds, check out the NHL Metropolitan Division Odds & Predictions.
Canucks Struggling Amid Injuries
The Vancouver Canucks (32-26-12, 76 points) have hit a rough patch at the most crucial time of the season. They are 0-1-1 in the first two games of their six-game road trip, including a heartbreaking 5-3 loss to the New York Rangers on Saturday. Despite outshooting the Rangers 39-12, the Canucks fell apart in the third period, conceding four goals after Elias Pettersson and Nils Hoglander left the game with injuries.

Canucks coach Rick Tocchet noted that both Pettersson and Hoglander are doubtful for Monday’s game, further depleting an already injury-riddled roster. With Filip Chytil (concussion) and Thatcher Demko (lower-body injury) also out, the Canucks’ postseason hopes are dwindling.
“I thought we competed hard, especially with two forwards going down,” defenseman Quinn Hughes said. “Nine times out of 10, I think we walk away with that one, but in this instance, we don’t.”
With Kevin Lankinen battling an illness, inexperienced backup Arturs Silovs may be forced into action if Demko is not ready to play.
For insights into how injuries are affecting the Canucks’ playoff push, check out the NHL Pacific Division Odds & Predictions.
Devils Seeking Stability in Playoff Push
The New Jersey Devils (37-28-6, 80 points) are aiming to tighten their grip on a playoff spot as they sit in third place in the Metropolitan Division. Despite their current standing, the Devils have faced inconsistency at home, going 4-7-1 in their last 12 home games.
In their most recent outing, the Devils fell 3-2 to the Ottawa Senators, conceding three redirected goals within a 4:39 span during the second period. Despite outshooting the Senators 15-4 in the third period, the Devils couldn’t complete the comeback.
“I just don’t think that in the first or second period, we’re starting desperate enough to win,” said forward Jesper Bratt. “I thought our puck battles and our puck play just [weren’t] good enough.”
Bratt, the team’s leading scorer with 81 points (20 goals, 61 assists), set a new Devils record for single-season assists in the loss to Ottawa. Nico Hischier also continues his hot streak, tallying seven points (four goals, three assists) over the last six games.
To keep track of the Devils’ playoff push, visit the NHL Conference Odds & Predictions.
Goaltending Matchup
New Jersey Devils
- Jacob Markstrom: Likely starter, rotating starts with Jake Allen
- Recent struggles: .833 save percentage over his last seven games
Vancouver Canucks
- Kevin Lankinen: Questionable due to illness
- Arturs Silovs: Backup likely to start if Lankinen can’t go
- Thatcher Demko: Traveling with the team but doubtful to play
For predictions and betting insights on this game, visit the Stanley Cup Odds & Predictions page.
Series History and Prediction
The Devils have been dominant against the Canucks for nearly a decade, boasting a 16-2-0 record in their last 18 meetings dating back to the 2014-15 season. The most recent encounter was a 6-0 shutout for New Jersey on October 30 in Vancouver.
Given the Canucks’ injury woes and goaltending uncertainty, the Devils are favored to continue their dominance. Expect a high-energy game from both sides, but New Jersey’s depth and recent success against Vancouver make them the clear favorites.
Final Thoughts
The Devils look to capitalize on Vancouver’s injury struggles and continue their remarkable winning record against the Canucks. With the playoff race heating up, every point counts, and the Devils can’t afford any more slip-ups at home. On the other hand, the Canucks are fighting to keep their postseason hopes alive, making this a must-watch game.
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