New Jersey Devils vs Florida Panthers Picks and Predictions October 16th 2025

Florida Panthers vs New Jersey Devils Betting Preview

The Florida Panthers head to Newark to face the New Jersey Devils in a Thursday night clash at Prudential Center. Puck drop is set for 7:00 PM ET, with coverage on ESPN+.

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Florida (3-2-0) started the season with three straight home wins but has struggled on the road, dropping back-to-back games to Philadelphia and Detroit. Meanwhile, New Jersey (2-1-0) returns home after a strong season-opening road trip and looks to extend its win streak to three games.

Panthers Aim to End Road Skid

After a dominant 3-0 start, the two-time defending Stanley Cup champions have stumbled on their first road swing. Florida lost 5-2 in Philadelphia and 4-1 in Detroit, surrendering nine goals across those two games. Head coach Paul Maurice remains confident but acknowledged his team must sharpen execution in the offensive zone.

Brad Marchand has been Florida’s early catalyst, leading the team with three goals and five points. He’s riding a four-game point streak and continues to set the tone for the Panthers’ top line. Anton Lundell has matched Marchand with five points, while Eetu Luostarinen adds offensive depth.

Goaltending duties are expected to shift to Daniil Tarasov after Sergei Bobrovsky started Wednesday against Detroit. Tarasov, who brings fresh legs and solid rebound control, will look to stabilize the crease as Florida tries to end its brief skid.

Despite early injuries — including absences from Aleksander Barkov, Matthew Tkachuk, and Dmitry Kulikov — the Panthers remain among the league leaders in hits (142), illustrating their physical forechecking identity.

Devils Seek Momentum in Home Debut

The New Jersey Devils open their home schedule after a productive road trip, winning two of three and showing resilience in a 3-2 victory over Columbus. However, the win came at a cost — starting goaltender Jacob Markstrom is sidelined for a few weeks due to an injury.

Backup Jake Allen is expected to start after overcoming cramps that forced him out of Monday’s game. The Devils also recalled Nico Daws from AHL Utica to provide depth in goal.

New Jersey’s attack has been balanced, with 11 goals through three games. Defenseman Luke Hughes leads the team with four assists, while Jesper Bratt and Timo Meier have combined for four goals and seven points. The Devils’ blue line has also been active offensively, generating consistent zone pressure and transition play.

Coach Sheldon Keefe praised his team’s adaptability, especially the defensive core, which has handled early injuries effectively. Expect the Devils to feed off the home crowd as they look to extend Florida’s road woes.

Line Movement and Odds

Current Odds (via ScoresAndStats.com NHL Odds)

New Jersey Devils -157 (Moneyline)
Florida Panthers +132 (Moneyline)
Total: 6.0 (Over -113 / Under -107)

The Devils are favored for good reason, owning one of the NHL’s most balanced offenses through three games. Florida, however, remains dangerous and has the depth to challenge even without its full lineup.

Matchup Breakdown

Florida Panthers Outlook

The Panthers must rediscover their defensive structure after allowing nine goals in two games. Tarasov’s play will be pivotal, as will secondary scoring from players like Sam Reinhart and Carter Verhaeghe. If Florida can limit turnovers and capitalize on special teams, they’re capable of stealing a win on the road.

New Jersey Devils Outlook

New Jersey’s offense has thrived thanks to strong puck movement and creativity from its blue line. The Devils’ forecheck could exploit Florida’s tired legs after consecutive road games. Allen’s goaltending will be tested early, but his experience provides stability.

Key Edge

New Jersey’s speed and transition game could be decisive against a Florida team still finding its road rhythm. The Devils’ home opener energy and depth advantage give them the upper hand, especially with Markstrom’s absence mitigated by a deep defensive core.

Betting Trends

Florida is 3-2 straight-up in its last five games.
Florida has gone over the total in two of its last three contests.
New Jersey is 2-1 straight-up this season.
The total has gone over in all three Devils games this year.
Florida is 3-2 on the puck line this season.
New Jersey is 1-2 on the puck line in 2025.

Prediction and Best Bets

The Devils’ offensive consistency and home-ice momentum make them a strong play here, but Florida’s depth ensures this matchup won’t be one-sided. Expect a fast-paced, high-scoring affair.

Projected Score: New Jersey 4, Florida 3
Best Bet: Over 6.0 (-113)
Secondary Lean: New Jersey -157 (Moneyline)

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