New Jersey Devils vs. Boston Bruins: Game Preview
The New Jersey Devils are set to face off against the Boston Bruins today in an important road matchup at TD Garden. As they embark on a short two-game road trip, the Devils currently stand with a record of 16 wins and 11 losses, alongside 1 overtime loss, while the Bruins hold a record of 16 wins and 13 losses with no overtime results.
Recent Performance
Devils
After enjoying four consecutive home games, the Devils head into this clash needing a turnaround, as they have recently dropped their last four contests. Notably, their offensive struggles have culminated in being shut out in two of those matches, leading to a significant drought of over 128 minutes without a goal. These results have relegated the Devils out of the playoff positions, making today’s game crucial for their chances. A victory against the Bruins could rejuvenate their season and reinstate them in the chase for a postseason spot.
Bruins
In contrast, the Bruins are entering this game with a slight boost after edging out the St. Louis Blues in their last outing. However, they have felt the impact of injuries to key players, such as David Pastrnak, which has affected their scoring ability. Despite this, the Bruins have managed to secure five wins in their previous ten games, bolstered by standout performances, particularly from Morgan Geekie, who has emerged as a formidable scorer with 21 goals this season, placing him second overall in the league, just behind Nathan MacKinnon. Holding a strong home record of 10-5-0 and currently sitting at the top of the Atlantic Division, the Bruins hope to leverage their home advantage to maintain their momentum.
Lineup Updates
The Devils have introduced some changes to their lineup, including the debut of Angus Crookshank, who played over ten minutes in a recent loss to the Vegas Golden Knights. Meanwhile, it is anticipated that Jake Allen will be starting in goal for the Devils after Jacob Markstrom played last night. The Bruins will counter with Jeremy Swayman in net, who last took the ice on Tuesday, saving 18 out of 23 shots against the opposition. Expected forward lines for the Bruins include Steeves alongside Lindholm and Geekie, while Mittelstadt centers a line with Zacha and Arvidsson.
Injury Reports
Injuries have hampered both rosters significantly. The Devils are missing center Jack Hughes due to a finger injury, along with other players: Pesce (upper body), Dadonov (undisclosed), Kovacevic (knee), MacEwen (undisclosed), McLaughlin (undisclosed). The Bruins are also feeling the loss of notable players, including Pastrnak (unknown injury) and defenseman Charlie McAvoy (facial injury), along with Callahan (lower-body), Jokiharju (undisclosed), and Blumel (lower-body).
Upcoming Meetings
This encounter marks the first of three planned meetings between the two teams this season, with subsequent matchups set for March 16 and April 14. Fans can anticipate the puck drop at 7 PM, promising an engaging game that could shape the playoff landscape for both teams.
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