Devils Face Senators in Crucial NHL Matchup Amid Illness Concerns

NEWARK, N.J. – The New Jersey Devils (26-16-6) are set to host the Ottawa Senators (23-18-4) in a pivotal NHL matchup Sunday afternoon at Prudential Center. The game, broadcast on MSGSN and available on the Devils Hockey Network, marks the second of back-to-back weekend matinees for New Jersey.

Head coach Sheldon Keefe emphasized the need for a simplified game plan as the Devils aim to rebound from a recent slump, winning just two of their last 10 games. “Trust in the structure, trust in the system,” Keefe said during a pre-game media availability. “Doing your job, getting to your spots, and not trying to complicate it, especially if it’s not going well.”

The Devils have been battling a wave of illness within the team, with forward Stefan Noesen recently missing two games. However, Keefe expressed optimism about the lineup. “We’re monitoring it from an energy standpoint and making sure it’s not contagious,” he said. “Seems like we have a group of guys that are in today that are good, and nothing to be concerned about at this moment.”

Ottawa enters the game on a strong streak, going 4-0-1 in their last five contests. Keefe praised the Senators’ recent performance, noting their improved defense and goaltending. “They’ve played good defense. They’ve gotten better goaltending,” he said. “They keep the puck away from their net. They’ve always been very dangerous in transition, a lot of skill throughout their lineup.”

New Jersey’s offensive struggles have been a focal point, with the team ranking third in the NHL in power play efficiency (28.4%) but struggling to convert opportunities. Jack Hughes leads the Devils with 55 points, while Nico Hischier tops the team with 22 goals. Ottawa’s offense is spearheaded by Tim Stutzle (45 points) and Brady Tkachuk (18 goals).

Injuries remain a factor for both teams. The Devils are without Haula (ankle) and Hatakka (shoulder), while Ottawa is missing key players like Linus Ullmark (back) and Thomas Chabot (face).

The game is critical for playoff positioning, with the Devils holding a slim one-point lead over the Carolina Hurricanes in the Metropolitan Division. Ottawa, tied with Columbus and Boston for the final Eastern Conference playoff spot, looks to continue their recent momentum.

Puck drop is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET at Prudential Center.