Carolina (2-0) at New Jersey (0-2)
- When: Apr 25 2025, 8:00 PM
- Where: Prudential Center, Newark, NJ, USA
- TV: TBS
Hurricanes vs. Devils Game 3 Preview & Betting Breakdown
Moneyline Favorite: Carolina -168 | Total: 5.5
Carolina Hurricanes Outlook
Carolina enters Game 3 with all the momentum, holding a 2-0 series lead and sitting as -168 moneyline favorites. Back-to-back home wins showcased their structure, depth, and special teams dominance—especially their perfect 5-for-5 penalty kill and a short-handed goal that swung Game 2. Historically, teams up 2-0 in a best-of-seven format win the series over 86% of the time, and Carolina’s track record supports that. They’ve advanced in five of six series after grabbing a two-game lead since 2020.
The Canes don’t just win—they smother opponents. Their ability to adjust mid-game was on full display Tuesday, when they erased an early deficit and took control with two quick goals in the second period. Coach Rod Brind’Amour has made it clear: this team won’t ease up. Carolina’s playoff identity is clear—tough, opportunistic, and relentless on special teams. They’re poised to put a chokehold on this series in Newark.
New Jersey Devils Outlook
New Jersey heads back home down 0-2, hoping history repeats itself. They climbed out of the same hole in last year’s playoffs against the Rangers, but that comeback required near-perfect execution—and this Carolina team is no soft target. Still, the Devils showed improvement in Game 2, pushing back physically and generating more high-danger chances, including eight of the game’s first nine shots.
Jesper Bratt’s early goal gave them life, but sustaining that level has been an issue. They’re still chasing the Hurricanes in key areas—special teams, zone exits, and shot quality. The injury report also isn’t doing them favors: Brenden Dillon and Luke Hughes remain questionable, and while Jonas Siegenthaler may return, their defensive core is banged up at the worst possible time.
Betting Prediction
Carolina is simply executing at a higher level. Their special teams are clicking, they’re deeper on both ends of the ice, and they’ve proven they know how to finish series once they’re in control. The Devils will need to be near-perfect to shift the momentum—and with health issues on the blue line, that’s a big ask.
Best Bet: Hurricanes ML (-168)
Prediction: Carolina 3, New Jersey 1
Lean: Under 5.5 (-117) – Expect a grind-it-out battle, where defense and goaltending take center stage.
- NHL Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
