Devils Face Flames in Crucial Playoff Showdown Tonight

NEWARK, N.J. — The New Jersey Devils (37-26-6) are set to host the Calgary Flames (31-25-11) at Prudential Center on Thursday, March 20, marking the beginning of a critical three-game homestand for New Jersey. The puck drops at 7:00 p.m. ET, with coverage available on MSGSN2 and the Devils Hockey Network.

The Devils are currently vying for a playoff spot, having recently bounced back from a loss against the Pittsburgh Penguins to secure a vital 2-1 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets on Monday. Goalie Jake Allen was pivotal in that win, making 45 saves. With goals from Timo Meier and Jesper Bratt occurring in rapid succession, New Jersey solidified its lead over Columbus, placing them third in the Metropolitan Division standings.

Head coach Sheldon Keefe has indicated that Jacob Markstrom will start against the Flames, returning to face a team he previously played for over four seasons. Markstrom’s performance will be crucial as he faces off against a Calgary team fighting for its playoff life, currently sitting just outside a Wild Card position in the Western Conference.

“Every game matters a lot,” Bratt said Wednesday. “They’re a tight team. You really have to be careful and simplify things when you play against a team like that.”

In their last outing, the Flames earned a 2-1 victory over the New York Rangers on Tuesday night, snapping a three-game losing streak. With only two points separating them from the playoff line, the stakes are high for Calgary, prompting Bratt’s warning about the defensive nature of their style.

Keefe emphasized the urgency of the current stretch of games, reminding his players, “We’re in a fight to make the playoffs. Every game is important. Our effort, enthusiasm, and details must meet that challenge.”

Among those contributing to New Jersey’s recent success are Bratt and newcomer Cody Glass, both vital in their bid for the postseason. Bratt has posted ten points in his last four games, closing in on the franchise record for most assists in a single season.

The Flames, despite struggling for consistency, present a formidable challenge with a balanced offensive attack led by Nazem Kadri and Jonathan Huberdeau, each totaling 50 points. However, Calgary’s ability to transition swiftly into defensive sets will test New Jersey’s ability to create scoring opportunities.

In injury updates, the Devils have seen J. Hughes and Siegenthaler placed on long-term injured reserve, while the Flames will be without Backlund as he deals with a week-to-week injury. Both teams hope to come away with crucial points as the season winds down.

With the playoffs around the corner, every game matters significantly. Fans can expect an intense matchup tonight as both teams push toward securing their postseason aspirations.