Devils vs Hurricanes

Carolina faces an opponent currently mired in inconsistency, missing key contributors and struggling to find form. Meanwhile, the Hurricanes’ recent dip seems more like a temporary lapse in netminding than a sign of deeper issues. With the postseason approaching and seeding implications on the line, this matchup carries weight—Carolina can lock in home-ice advantage, while their opponents remain on the playoff bubble. Historically, the Hurricanes have had the upper hand in this rivalry, especially on special teams, where they continue to excel defensively against an average power play unit.

Laying a hefty price isn’t always fun, but this feels like one of those spots where the numbers and the momentum line up. The home team has a lot more stability, and with the visiting side pressing to stay in the hunt, that desperation could lead to mistakes. It’s not flashy, but sometimes the right play is the obvious one. Pick: Carolina moneyline.

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New Jersey heads to Raleigh for a matchup that feels like a playoff dress rehearsal, pitting a high-speed offense against a defensive unit known for its aggressive forecheck. While one team has struggled to find its footing amid lineup absences and defensive lapses, the other enters riding a wave of recent success despite managing its own roster hurdles. Both clubs remain in the playoff mix, and with top-tier power plays on either side, this game is set up for a fast pace and plenty of scoring opportunities. Goaltending has been shaky for both teams of late, adding more fuel to what could be a high-scoring contest.

If you’re into betting totals, this is one to circle. Neither side is locking things down defensively right now, and the offensive weapons on both benches are more than capable of lighting the lamp. The number isn’t outrageous, and with the intensity ramping up ahead of the postseason, there’s plenty of value in a game that could easily turn into a track meet. Grade B+ for value.

Carolina returns home riding strong momentum and looking to extend their edge against a New Jersey team that continues to deal with lineup instability and defensive struggles. With the hosts still pushing for favorable playoff positioning and their opponents fighting to stay in the wild-card mix, urgency will be high on both benches. Carolina’s offensive core has consistently created problems for New Jersey’s blue line this season, and with recent defensive letdowns and uncertainty in net for the visitors, the home side is well-positioned to dictate the flow—especially if they can generate pressure early.

Sometimes laying the puck line is risky, but this spot makes a strong case for it. The Hurricanes have been dominant at home, and with their style of play built to capitalize on mistakes, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them win this by multiple goals. If they jump out early, they’re unlikely to let up