Flames vs. Devils Odds
| Flames Odds | +122 |
| Devils Odds | -146 |
| Over / Under | 6.5 -115o / -105u |
Here's everything you need to know about the Calgary Flames vs. New Jersey Devils on Thursday, Feb. 8 – our expert NHL prediction and pick.
Tonight's Devils vs. Flames matchup is rich with playoff implications for both teams as they jockey for position in their conference standings.
Both teams currently sit in 11th place in their respective conference and three games out of the eighth and final playoff position.
The Devils, known for their dynamic offense and undisciplined defense, face off against a Flames team that has shown flashes of brilliance but struggles with consistency.
Calgary Flames
The Flames have faced a mixed bag of results in their last 10 outings. They have a 6-4 record over that span, and despite possessing a talented roster capable of matching up with the league's best, Calgary has struggled to find a consistent rhythm, as evidenced by their fluctuating Corsi numbers and xG%.
While they have shown the ability to generate offense, their conversion of HDSC into goals has not been as efficient as needed to dominate games. The Flames' power play has had moments of brilliance but ranks 26th on the season.
Where they thrive, however, is on the penalty kill, with which they are third in the league with an 84.1% kill percentage.
Calgary's goaltending has been a bright spot this season. Starter Jacob Markstrom has shown he can be a game-changer on a nightly basis, posting a 2.55 GAA and 91.3% save percentage.
Against a high-flying Devils offense, his performance will be tested early and often, with the Flames needing a top-tier showing to stave off the relentless New Jersey attack.
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New Jersey Devils
The Devils have one of the best offenses in the league this season, showcasing a blend of relentless attacking play but disappointing defensive play.
Their advanced metrics, such as a top-five Corsi rating, indicate that they consistently control the puck and generate a high volume of shots, a testament to their aggressive play style. Moreover, the Devils have excelled in creating High Danger Scoring Chances (HDSC), translating to a superior xG% (expected goals percentage; sixth in the league) that underscores their efficiency in converting possession into quality scoring opportunities.
Their eighth-ranked power play has been impressive, further solidifying their status as an offensive juggernaut capable of punishing opponents' mistakes on the defensive end.
On the goaltending front, the Devils have plenty of room for improvement between the pipes. New Jersey’s starting goalie, Vitek Vanecek, owns a 3.23 goals-against average (GAA) this season, which ranks 60th out of 89 goalies.
Vanecek will need to see a massive improvement during the second half of the season and provide the Devils with more confidence to balance their aggressive style without the fear of conceding easy goals. He is currently allowing 12.2 goals above expected, which is second to last for all eligible goalies.
His improvement between the pipes would allow the Devils to continue to push the pace and apply pressure, knowing their last line of defense is secure.
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Flames vs. Devils
Betting Pick & Prediction
For this matchup, I am backing the New Jersey Devils to win tonight's game. Their superior puck control, efficiency in creating and capitalizing on scoring chances, and home-ice advantage should present a tough challenge for the Calgary Flames.
Coupled with Calgary's inconsistency and the pivotal role their goaltending will play, the Devils' balanced attack should tip the scales in their favor.
Additionally, All-Star center Jack Hughes is back in action, which will further boost the Devils' attack.
These two teams already faced off this season on Dec. 9, and the Devils left that game with a 4-2 victory in Calgary. In addition, against the top-10 teams in goals forced this season, the Flames have a 6-9 record.
Take the Devils on the -135 moneyline tonight at bet365 and expect a 4-3 Devils victory.
Pick: Devils ML (-135 at bet365)
