New Jersey Devils Defend Historic Home Streak Against Struggling St. Louis Blues

The New Jersey Devils host the St. Louis Blues tonight at Prudential Center. The Devils are protecting a perfect nine-game home point streak. The struggling Blues are fighting for their first regulation win on a difficult road trip.

This matchup pits one of the league’s best home teams against one of its most vulnerable squads. The game starts at 7:00 PM ET in Newark.

Devils’ Home Dominance Reaches Historic Levels

The New Jersey Devils have not lost in regulation at home this season. Their record at Prudential Center stands at an impressive 8-0-1. This nine-game point streak ties the second-best home run in franchise history.

According to NHL.com, the team’s defensive structure under coach Sheldon Keefe has been key. They are coming off a hard-fought 4-3 victory against the Detroit Red Wings. That win provided crucial momentum for this homestand.

The Devils currently hold second place in the competitive Metropolitan Division. They sit just one point behind the Carolina Hurricanes. Protecting their home ice is vital for maintaining this playoff position.

Blues Face Uphill Battle on the Road

The St. Louis Blues arrive in New Jersey with significant challenges. They rank near the bottom of the league in both goals scored and goals allowed. Their defensive issues have been a persistent problem all season.

The team is currently on a five-game East Coast road trip. They have managed only one win so far. This poor form has left them seventh in the Wild Card chase, outside a playoff spot.

Despite their record, the Blues have been competitive in many games. They have only three regulation losses this season. Many of their contests have extended into overtime, a trend noted by opposing coaches.

Key Matchups and Player Performances

Devils coach Sheldon Keefe has found success with his reshuffled top line. Timo Meier now plays alongside Nico Hischier and Jesper Bratt. This trio has generated immediate offensive results.

Meier has scored in his last two consecutive games. Hischier is on a hot streak with four goals in his past four contests. Jesper Bratt continues to lead the team in overall points with 22.

The Blues will counter with veteran defenseman Justin Faulk. He recently celebrated his 1,000th NHL game. Faulk has three points in his last three games, providing offensive punch from the blue line.

Coaching Strategies and Game Expectations

Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe is preparing for a tight contest. He publicly acknowledged the Blues’ tendency to play close games. “It’s going to be tight checking,” Keefe told reporters. “They only have three regulation losses. A lot of games are getting to overtime.”

In goal, Jacob Markstrom will start for the Devils. His consistent play has been foundational to the team’s home success. The Blues are expected to counter with Joel Hofer.

The Blues must find a way to solve the Devils’ structured defensive system. Breaking through at Prudential Center has proven impossible for every opponent so far this season. Their struggling offense faces its toughest test yet.

The New Jersey Devils’ home streak represents one of the early season’s most impressive achievements. Extending it against the St. Louis Blues would further cement their status as a true Eastern Conference contender.

Info at your fingertips

What time is the Devils vs. Blues game?

The game starts at 7:00 PM Eastern Time. It is being played at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

How long is the Devils’ current home point streak?

The Devils are on a nine-game home point streak. They have a perfect 8-0-1 record at Prudential Center this season.

Who is the Devils’ leading scorer?

Jesper Bratt leads the team with 22 total points. He has scored 5 goals and recorded 17 assists so far this season.

Why are the Blues struggling this season?

The Blues rank 29th in goals allowed and 27th in goals scored. These offensive and defensive struggles have led to their disappointing record.

Which goalies are starting tonight?

Jacob Markstrom will start in goal for the New Jersey Devils. The St. Louis Blues are expected to start Joel Hofer.

What is the Devils’ position in their division?

New Jersey holds second place in the Metropolitan Division. They are just one point behind the first-place Carolina Hurricanes.