Vegas (31-17-6) at New Jersey (30-19-6)
- When: Feb 6 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Prudential Center, Newark, NJ, USA
- TV: MSGSN
Game Preview
Vegas Golden Knights: Struggling to Find Their Groove
The Golden Knights are in desperate need of a turnaround as they head into Thursday’s matchup against the Devils. Vegas has lost four straight (0-2-2) and is just 3-8-3 over its last 14 games. With their offense sputtering, the defending Stanley Cup champs are on the verge of their longest losing streak in nearly three years.
Vegas put up a strong defensive effort in Tuesday’s 2-1 loss to the Islanders, holding New York to just 14 shots—the fewest they’ve allowed all season. However, they couldn’t capitalize on their own 34-shot effort, as Ilya Sorokin stonewalled them.
The Knights have now scored just four goals in their last three games, a troubling trend for a team looking to stay in the top tier of the Western Conference. If they can’t find more offensive production, this road trip could get even worse. Nicolas Roy emphasized the need for urgency, saying, “You’re not going to win a lot of games scoring one goal on the road.”
With only two games left before the break, Vegas will have to find a way to break through against a Devils squad that has been playing solid hockey.
New Jersey Devils: Building Momentum Before the Break
The Devils are heating up at the right time, winning four of their last six and picking up a gritty 3-2 shootout win over Pittsburgh on Tuesday. Jack Hughes continues to be the heartbeat of this team, scoring twice in regulation, while Timo Meier delivered the game-winning goal in the seventh round of the shootout.
New Jersey is just two points behind Carolina for second place in the Metropolitan Division, and a win here would keep them in striking distance. Head coach Sheldon Keefe praised his team’s resilience, stating, “We battled through fatigue and found a way to get two points.”
The Devils have shown an ability to close games lately, but Tuesday’s game also revealed some defensive lapses. They led 2-0 before allowing Pittsburgh to claw back, an issue they can’t afford against a desperate Vegas team.
Betting Prediction:
New Jersey ML (-117) ✅
Under 5.5 Goals ✅
Jack Hughes Anytime Goal ✅ (If available)
With Vegas struggling offensively and New Jersey finding ways to grind out wins, the Devils should have the edge in this one. The total could lean under if the Knights continue to struggle to find the back of the net. Expect New Jersey to take advantage of Vegas’ lack of scoring and pull out a close victory.
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- NHL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
