Avalanche vs Devils Prediction & Odds - 2/26/2025

The Colorado Avalanche (33-24-2) welcome the New Jersey Devils (32-21-6) to Ball Arena for what promises to be an electrifying cross-conference matchup on Wednesday night.

Both teams enter the contest showcasing impressive offensive firepower, with the Avalanche averaging 3.17 goals per game led by Nathan MacKinnon's dynamic presence, while the Devils counter with 3.07 goals per game behind Jack Hughes and Jesper Bratt's combined 43 goals and 93 assists this season.

The contrast in defensive performances adds an intriguing dimension to this matchup, as New Jersey's stingy defense allows just 2.46 goals per game compared to Colorado's 3.02 goals against average.

The Avalanche look to snap a two-game losing streak and maintain their grip on the Central Division's top wild card spot, while the Devils aim to strengthen their hold on third place in the Metropolitan Division.

MacKenzie Blackwood's stellar performance in net for Colorado, boasting a .921 save percentage, could prove decisive against his former team.

This compelling matchup features two teams with playoff aspirations and contrasting styles, setting the stage for what could be one of the most exciting NHL contests of the week.

Colorado Avalanche vs. New Jersey Devils preview

The Colorado Avalanche and New Jersey Devils are set to face off in what promises to be an electrifying matchup at Ball Arena, with both teams looking to strengthen their playoff positioning.

The Devils (32-21-6) enter the contest riding high after an impressive 5-0 shutout victory against the Predators, showcasing their defensive prowess that has limited opponents to just 2.46 goals per game this season.

Meanwhile, the Avalanche (33-24-2) are eager to bounce back from two consecutive losses, despite maintaining their position as the top wild card team in the Central Division.

The matchup features two distinct styles, with Colorado's high-powered offense (3.17 goals per game) led by Nathan MacKinnon and Artturi Lehkonen going up against New Jersey's stifling defense anchored by the formidable pairing of Johnathan Kovacevic and Dougie Hamilton.

Jack Hughes and Jesper Bratt have been offensive catalysts for the Devils, combining for an impressive 43 goals and 93 assists, while the Avalanche counter with the dynamic duo of MacKinnon and Lehkonen, who have tallied 44 goals and 77 assists between them.

In net, the goaltending battle features Jake Allen (.909 save percentage) for the Devils against MacKenzie Blackwood (.921 save percentage) for the Avalanche, with both netminders showing strong form this season.

The Avalanche's defensive pairing of Cale Makar and Devon Toews has been particularly effective, contributing both offensively (29 goals, 63 assists) and defensively (19.8 defensive point shares).

While the odds slightly favor the Avalanche (-130) on their home ice, the Devils' recent shutout victory and balanced attack make this an intriguing matchup that could go either way.

With both teams averaging over three goals per game and featuring dynamic offensive talents, fans at Ball Arena can expect an up-tempo, high-scoring affair that should surpass the over/under of 6 goals.