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The NHL regular season resumes with a Metropolitan Division clash at PPG Paints Arena as the Pittsburgh Penguins host the New Jersey Devils. Both teams return from the Olympic break facing very different trajectories. The Penguins (29-15-12) sit comfortably in 2nd place in the division and 6th in the Eastern Conference, having won eight of their last 10 games. Conversely, the New Jersey Devils (28-28-2) have spiraled recently, entering this 7:00 PM puck drop on ESPN+ with a discouraging five-game losing streak.
Despite being shorthanded due to a lengthy injury and suspension list, Pittsburgh remains the clear favorite on home ice. Sheldon Keefe’s Devils are fighting to stay relevant in a crowded playoff race, but they must find a way to convert their high shot volume into goals against a Penguins squad that has found its defensive stride under Dan Muse.
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New Jersey Devils vs Pittsburgh Penguins Odds
Pittsburgh opens as a moderate home favorite, though the line provides some value for those backing a Devils upset. For the most up-to-date market movements, check the latest NHL odds.
| Team | Moneyline | Puck Line | Total |
| New Jersey Devils | +120 | +1.5 (-219) | O 5.5 (-125) |
| Pittsburgh Penguins | -141 | -1.5 (+175) | U 5.5 (+105) |
New Jersey Devils Betting Form
The Devils are a team that lives and dies by the volume of their attack. Ranking 5th in the league with 1,699 shots on goal, they consistently pressure opposing goaltenders but have struggled with finishing during their current 0-5 slide. Timo Meier and Nico Hischier (42 points) lead a top-heavy offense that needs more support from the bottom six to overcome their defensive lapses.
New Jersey’s 1,124 hits show a physical edge, but they are currently decimated on the back end. The New Jersey Devils injury report lists star defenseman Luke Hughes as out with a shoulder injury, leaving a massive void in their transition game. For more on their situational records, visit the New Jersey Devils stats and results page.
Pittsburgh Penguins Betting Form
The Penguins have been one of the hottest teams in the league, largely due to their balanced scoring and reliable goaltending from Stuart Skinner (19 wins). While they are missing the legendary Sidney Crosby to a lower-body injury, the depth scoring has stepped up, as evidenced by Avery Hayes and Benjamin Kindel each netting two goals in their last victory.
Pittsburgh is particularly strong at home and boasts a dominant 18-6 puck line record as an underdog, though they play the favorite role tonight. The Pittsburgh Penguins injury report is currently crowded, with Crosby, Lizotte, and several suspended defensemen like Caleb Jones out of the lineup. Despite this, their structure has held up, ranking 9th in the NHL in goals against. For a look at their full season performance, check the Pittsburgh Penguins schedule and stats.
New Jersey Devils vs Pittsburgh Penguins Matchup Breakdown
This matchup features the Devils’ high-volume shooting against Pittsburgh’s disciplined defensive system. The Devils’ 5th-ranked shot count suggests they will have plenty of chances, but they face a Penguins defense that ranks 17th in blocks and 9th in keeping the puck out of the net. If you are looking for an NHL expert betting guide, keep an eye on how the Devils handle the absence of Luke Hughes on the power play.
Special teams could be the deciding factor. With both teams missing key playmakers, the game may devolve into a battle of attrition. Pittsburgh’s ability to win 17 games within the conference already this season shows they know how to handle Metropolitan rivals. Those looking at the bigger picture can track how these divisional results impact Stanley Cup betting futures as we head into the final months.
- The Penguins are 8-2 SU in their last 10 games.
- The Devils have lost 5 straight games.
- New Jersey ranks 5th in the NHL in shots on goal.
- Pittsburgh ranks 9th in the NHL in goals against.
New Jersey Devils vs Pittsburgh Penguins Predictions and Best Bets
The model projects a 4-3 victory for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Even without Crosby, the Penguins have a cohesive identity and a much more reliable goaltending situation with Skinner. The Devils’ 0-5 streak is hard to ignore, especially given their lack of defensive depth with Hughes sidelined.
The total is set at 5.5, but our model projects 7 total goals. Both teams possess high-octane offensive capabilities, and the Devils’ aggressive style often leads to odd-man rushes for their opponents. Taking the Over 5.5 at -125 is the recommended play in what should be a back-and-forth affair at PPG Paints Arena.
Best Bet: Pittsburgh Penguins moneyline (-141).
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NHL Picks and Handicappers on ScoresAndStats
Divisional matchups following a long break require careful analysis of roster depth and travel schedules. You can find today’s NHL picks from the pros at ScoresAndStats to see how they are playing this Metro clash. Our top sports handicappers analyze every injury and trend to provide the most accurate predictions.
Check the handicapper leaderboard to see who has the best record with Metropolitan Division games. Whether you want to buy expert picks or just browse our NHL game previews, we provide the tools you need for betting success.
