Opinion
3 min read

Devils Set to Strike Lightning at Prudential Center Showdown

As the New Jersey Devils gear up to host the Tampa Bay Lightning at the Prudential Center, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying clash. The Devils have been on a rollercoaster ride this season, but their recent performance suggests they're ready to take control of the narrative.


Jan 27, 2024; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman (77) passes the puck against the New Jersey Devils during the third period at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at their last game against the Nashville Predators on February 14th, NJ displayed a remarkable comeback spirit. After trailing in the first period, they surged back with an impressive four goals in total, three of which were hammered home during a thrilling third period. This kind of resilience is exactly what will be needed when they face TB.


The statistics from that game paint a picture of a team that's finding its groove. With 47 shots on goal and an eight percent shooting accuracy, it's clear that NJ isn't shy about pressing forward and taking chances. Their physicality was also evident; dishing out 20 hits and blocking 17 shots shows they're not afraid to put their bodies on the line.


Jan 27, 2024; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning center Tyler Motte (64) skates with the puck against the New Jersey Devils during the second period at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports

However, it wasn't just brute force that won them the day; it was also strategy. Winning over half of their faceoffs indicates strong center play and possession control – crucial against a team like TB who knows how to capitalize on turnovers.


NJ's powerplay didn't produce goals last time out but don't let that fool you – they created opportunities with five chances against Seattle Kraken earlier in February. If they can convert those opportunities into points against TB, it could be game-changing.


Jan 27, 2024; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Emil Martinsen Lilleberg (78) skates with the puck as New Jersey Devils defenseman John Marino (6) defends during the first period at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports

Defensively speaking, goaltending has been solid for NJ as well – boasting save percentages hovering around perfection across recent games shows reliability between the pipes which will undoubtedly come under fire from TB’s sharpshooters.


On Tampa Bay's side, there is no doubt about their capability; this is a team with firepower and finesse. However, if NJ can maintain discipline while unleashing their aggressive offense as seen in previous games – particularly during even-strength play where they've excelled – then fans might just witness an upset brewing at Newark’s hockey heartland.


The upcoming battle scheduled for February 25th at 6:00 PM promises high stakes and higher tensions as these two teams collide once more. Fans eager not to miss any second of this spectacle can tune into TNT channel 245 or MSGSN channel 635 for TV coverage or catch streaming action via Max internet broadcast network nationally.

Rate the article

Related stories

New Jersey Devils and Detroit Red Wings: A Cold War on Ice at Little Caesars Arena
Opinion

New Jersey Devils and Detroit Red Wings: A Cold War on Ice at Little Caesars Arena

4 min read
New Jersey Devils Eye Redemption Against St. Louis Blues in High-Stakes Showdown
Opinion

New Jersey Devils Eye Redemption Against St. Louis Blues in High-Stakes Showdown

3 min read
Can the New Jersey Devils Extend Their Winning Streak Against Nashville Predators?
Opinion

Can the New Jersey Devils Extend Their Winning Streak Against Nashville Predators?

3 min read