Matchup Overview:
The Devils are hurting right now. Both figuratively and physically. Without many of their top players the Devils struggled mightily on their west coast road trip. The last game versus the Sharks was an amalgamation of these issues as the Devils lost 4-0. They played an overall sloppy game and without key players like Taylor Hall and Kyle Palmieri struggled to create offensive chances.
The Maple Leafs are a fun team to watch. They are filled to the brim with young talent. Though skilled the team often struggles in areas such as defense and goaltending. The Maple Leafs enter tonight’s game coming off a 2-1 loss to Hurricanes last night.

Keys to the Game:
The Devils are going to need to find somebody to help carry the offense. They will look to players like Adam Henrique and Pavel Zacha to get going and take over the game. Hopefully having Corey Schneider in net keeps the game close. It will continue to be a struggle until the Devils can get some of their players back.

Players to Watch:
Nick Lappin continues to shine in his role on the 4th line. The Albany call up has filled the need the Devils have had for a long time. The need for a shoot first winger. Lappin does that and then some as he creates energy as well on his shifts.

Auston Matthews has stepped in and dominated the league so far this season. The 19 year old center has shown off his ability to create offense at an elite level as evident by his NHL debut. Matthews has hit a goal drought that stretches back to October 25th. So look for him to break through tonight.

Prediction:
The Devils are still hurting and are missing some of their better skaters. The much more high octane Leafs might be able to outskate the Devils and their offensive power may show despite the presence of Corey Schneider.

Devils lose 4-1

SB’s Record
6-2