Devils Defeat Ducks 4-1 at Prudential Center

What we said beforehand

The New Jersey Devils will face off against the Anaheim Ducks at the Prudential Center on October 22, 2026. This matchup is intriguing as both teams are looking to improve their standings early in the season. The Devils hold a home record of 5-4-0, while the Ducks are slightly behind with an away record of 4-5-0. The series begins on this date, making it a fresh start for both squads.

In their recent form, the New Jersey Devils have had a mixed bag of results. In their last five games, they have recorded three wins and two losses. Their most recent game saw them triumph over the Colorado Avalanche with a score of 4-3. Prior to that, they suffered a loss to the Washington Capitals (4-2) but managed to secure victories against the New York Rangers (7-1) and the Detroit Red Wings (5-4 OT). Overall, the Devils have averaged 3.8 goals scored and allowed 3.2 goals in their last five games.

Conversely, the Anaheim Ducks have struggled more recently, currently on a four-game losing streak. Their last five games include a win against the Calgary Flames (4-2), but they have since fallen to the New York Islanders (3-2), New York Rangers (5-2), Boston Bruins (4-2), and Calgary Flames (4-2) again. The Ducks have averaged 2.4 goals scored and 3.6 goals allowed in their last five outings, indicating a need for improvement in both offense and defense.

When it comes to home and away performance, the Devils have a home record of 4-2 in their last six games, while the Ducks have fared better on the road with a record of 4-2. However, the Ducks have struggled in their last five away games, managing only one win.

In terms of previous meetings this season, the teams have split their two encounters. The Devils won the first game 4-1 at home on December 13, 2025, while the Ducks took the second matchup 4-1 on November 3, 2025. This parity adds an interesting dynamic to their upcoming clash.

Injury-wise, the Devils will be without Nick Bjugstad and Seamus Casey, both on Injured Reserve due to a pectoral injury and a knee injury, respectively. The Ducks are also dealing with significant injuries, as Judd Caulfield is day-to-day with a personal issue, while Ian Moore, Ryan Poehling, and Troy Terry are all on Injured Reserve with lower body and hip injuries.

The betting market, as provided by DraftKings, has set the odds with the Devils favored at -218 on the money line, while the Ducks are at +180. The spread is set at -1.5 in favor of the Devils, with a total of 6.5 goals for the game. The over is priced at -125, while the under is at +105.

As for game conditions, the matchup will take place at the Prudential Center, where the Devils have enjoyed a solid home advantage. Fans can expect an exciting game as both teams look to capitalize on their scoring opportunities. Viewers should watch for the performances of key players such as Nico Hischier, who leads the Devils with four goals, and Leo Carlsson, who leads the Ducks with 11 points. The outcome of this game could hinge on which team can better manage their injuries and capitalize on scoring chances.