Devils Aim for Playoff Spot Against Struggling Bruins

NEWARK, N.J. — The New Jersey Devils are on the brink of clinching a playoff spot as they prepare to face the Boston Bruins tonight at 7 p.m. With help from other teams, the Devils can secure their postseason ticket with at least one point against the Bruins, who have struggled significantly in recent weeks.

As of late, the Devils (31-38-9) have gone 8-5-1 since the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline, accumulating 17 points. In contrast, the Bruins (41-29-7) have crumbled to a 3-9-1 record since then, earning only seven points. Boston’s disappointing performance led to their mathematical elimination from playoff contention on April 5.

In their last outing, the Devils defeated their rivals with a commanding 4-0 shutout. Captain Nico Hischier was instrumental in the victory, showcasing impressive play on both ends of the ice and scoring 17 points over his last 12 games. The Devils’ follow-up performance is critical as they aim for consistency and momentum heading into the postseason.

“We’ve put ourselves in a position to be one of those teams that can clinch a spot,” said Devils’ coach Sheldon Keefe. “We want to win every single game, and we’ve earned this opportunity through 77 games.”

Historically, the Devils have outperformed the Bruins this season, blending solid defensive play with offensive prowess. The last encounter on January 22 resulted in a decisive 5-1 victory for New Jersey, though the Devils faced challenges after losing goalie Jacob Markstrom to an injury during the game.

The current features a pair of teams in contrasting phases. The Devils are riding a three-game win streak, while the Bruins are mired in dysfunction, causing management to undergo a roster overhaul at the trade deadline. Key players like Brad Marchand and Charlie Coyle have been traded, and injuries, including defenseman Charlie McAvoy’s shoulder injury, have only exacerbated their woes.

Despite their setbacks, the Bruins boast superstar David Pastrnak, who leads the team with 40 goals and is closing in on a 100-point season. “He can change the game at any moment, and we need to be aware of that,” Keefe noted. “But we also need to focus on the other lines and not let their struggles affect our game plan.”

The significance of this match is amplified by the looming postseason for the Devils and the Bruins’ rebuilding phase. A win will not only bolster New Jersey’s playoff bid but could also further entrench Boston’s struggles.

“Clinching a playoff spot would mean so much more than just this game—it’s the culmination of our hard work throughout the season,” Hischier expressed. “We need to come out strong and take this opportunity.”

Tonight’s game will be available for viewing on MSG, with radio coverage on the Devils Hockey Network. As both teams pursue their respective goals, fans can expect an exciting matchup filled with intensity and crucial moments.