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Washington (19-13-5) at New Jersey (20-16-1)
- When: Dec 27 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Prudential Center, Newark, NJ, USA
- TV: MSGSN2
Washington vs New Jersey NHL Preview & Pick
Moneyline: New Jersey -122
Spread: New Jersey -1.5 (+210)
Total: 5.5
Washington Capitals Betting Breakdown
Washington heads into the second half of the season in a rough patch, dropping three straight games and losing six of their last seven overall. Despite the slide, the Capitals remain firmly in the playoff conversation in the Metropolitan Division, but the margin for error is shrinking quickly.
The extended December and January schedule will likely define what this team really is. Defensive breakdowns have crept in recently, and goaltending has not fully bailed them out during this skid. Logan Thompson has been solid overall this season with strong league-wide numbers, but his recent form has dipped, allowing 17 goals over his last five appearances. That inconsistency has coincided with Washington struggling to protect leads and control tempo.
Offensively, Washington has leaned heavily on Tom Wilson all season. While he remains the team’s most productive forward, his scoring touch has cooled, and the attack has lacked finish during this losing stretch. The Capitals still generate chances, but execution has been spotty, especially against structured defensive teams.
Road performance has also been an issue, and facing a Devils team desperate to climb back into the playoff picture adds another layer of difficulty in this matchup.
New Jersey Devils Betting Breakdown
New Jersey enters this game under pressure but not without reason for optimism. Injuries derailed much of their first half, most notably the extended absence of Jack Hughes. Even with limited games played, Hughes remains among the team leaders in goals and points, highlighting just how much his presence matters.
The Devils did not thrive without him, posting a losing record during that stretch, but they stayed competitive enough to keep themselves within striking distance. Now with Hughes back in the lineup, the expectation is that the offense will regain pace and creativity, even if the results have not shown up immediately.
Goaltending has been a mixed bag. Jacob Markstrom and Jake Allen have split starts evenly, with Allen providing more stability statistically. New Jersey has generally played tighter at home, and defensive structure tends to improve in Newark, especially against divisional opponents.
From a betting perspective, the Devils being priced as a modest home favorite reflects both Washington’s recent struggles and New Jersey’s urgency. This is a game the Devils know they need, and effort level should not be questioned.
Betting Outlook and Prediction
Given Washington’s recent defensive issues and New Jersey’s improving offensive outlook with a healthier lineup, the Devils hold the situational edge. This shapes up as a competitive divisional game, but the home side appears better positioned to control play and capitalize on mistakes.
The total of 5.5 feels tight. Both teams have shown volatility in net, but the stakes and familiarity suggest a more controlled pace rather than a wide-open shootout.
Score Prediction: Devils 3, Capitals 2
Pick: New Jersey (-122)
Total: Under 5.5 (-103)
- NHL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
