This coming March 17, 2025, hockey fans are in for a treat as the Columbus Blue Jackets will host the New Jersey Devils at the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio. The game is scheduled to start at 7:00 PM, promising an exciting matchup between two teams competing fiercely for victory. With the playoffs on the horizon, every game matters, and both teams are looking for a boost in their standings.
Current Team Records
Heading into this game, the New Jersey Devils hold a record of 36 wins, 26 losses, and 6 overtime losses. They’re still smarting from their recent matchup against the Pittsburgh Penguins, where they suffered a disappointing defeat with a score of 7-3. In contrast, the Columbus Blue Jackets arrive with a record of 31 wins, 27 losses, and 8 overtime losses. They faced a tough challenge in their last game against the New York Rangers, ending in a disheartening 4-0 loss. Both teams are eager to shake off these recent disappointing performances and secure a much-needed win.
Star Players to Watch
On the Devils’ side, Jesper Bratt is a standout player, leading the team with an impressive 19 goals and 60 assists this season. Not to be overlooked, Nico Hischier has also made a significant impact with 28 goals and 24 assists, showcasing his versatility and playmaking skills. Meanwhile, the Blue Jackets have their own star players to keep an eye on. Zach Werenski leads his team with 20 goals and 49 assists, while Kirill Marchenko has a strong showing this season with 25 goals and 37 assists. Both teams will rely heavily on their stars to guide them to victory.
Goaltender Showdown
In net, the Devils will be counting on Jacob Markstrom, who has a goals-against average (GAA) of 2.45 and a save percentage of .902. He’s been consistent and crucial for the Devils through the ups and downs of the season. The Blue Jackets will look to Elvis Merzlikins, who’s faced challenges this season with a GAA of 3.04 and a save percentage of .896. Both goaltenders will play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of this highly anticipated game.
Standings and Predictions
The race in the Metropolitan Division is intense. The Devils currently sit at third place with 78 points, while the Blue Jackets are trailing in fifth with 70 points. As they prepare for this matchup, analysts are speculating on how this game could sway the momentum for both teams. Some experts are predicting that despite recent struggles, the Blue Jackets could pull off a victory at home, where they generally perform better.
| Team | Record | Last Game Result | Key Players |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey Devils | 36-26-6 | Lost to Pittsburgh 7-3 | Jesper Bratt, Nico Hischier |
| Columbus Blue Jackets | 31-27-8 | Lost to Rangers 4-0 | Zach Werenski, Kirill Marchenko |
What to Expect
With everything on the line, fans can expect this game to be anything but dull. Coaches and players alike know the importance of every point in their quest for playoff position. Expect high-energy hockey with plenty of action, as both teams will go all out. Whether you’re cheering for the Devils or the Blue Jackets, this matchup is sure to bring excitement and drama on the ice.
Where to Watch
If you’re eager to catch the action live, the game will be broadcast on ESPN+, so make sure to tune in and cheer for your favorite team. As the date approaches, ticket sales will likely pick up, so fans hoping to be in the stands should act quickly to ensure they don’t miss out on this thrilling event.
