Matchup Overview:
The Devils are coming off a disappointing loss at the hands of the Stanley Cup Champion Pittsburgh Penguins. Sidney Crosby did Crosby-like things and tied the game with 14 seconds left and the Penguins went on to win in a shootout. It was tough to give away a point but it comforting to know without Schneider and Hall the Devils could stick with a team like the Penguins.
The Winnipeg Jets have faltered of late. Their win against the Predators in their last game ended a 5 game losing streak. The Jets are filled with fast young talent and teams like them have given the Devils trouble in the past. So they are definitely a dangerous opponent.

Keys to the Game:
Shot suppression. The Devils let Keith Kinkaid get peppered last game for nearly 50 shots. The Devils would be wise to not let players like Patrik Laine and Blake Wheeler to get a ton of open looks.
The Devils also need to keep the ball rolling offensively. They have been scoring a lot recently so hopefully they can continue scoring while also improving defensively.

Players to Watch

Corey Schneider. The perennial MVP of the Devils has had a rough stretch of games recently. He has allowed 9 goals over his last 2 starts. Schneider is still the Devils’ most important player but look for him to improve in this start.

Mark Scheifele. While the world has watched rookie Patrik Laine torch the league for 12 goals, Scheifele has quietly matched the young Finn in goals and surpasses him in points. Scheifele is a big powerful center with a rocket shot. Look for him to create some offense against New Jersey.

Prediction

The Devils are coming off a tough loss and will be motivated to play a stronger more defensive game. The Jets have struggled recently and will look to use their speed to take advantage of the Devils lackluster defense. I think the Jets skill and speed will once again have the Devils stuck in their own zone a lot but Schneider will push this game to overtime.

Jets win 3-2

SB’s Record:
6-3