The Calgary Flames enter this matchup against the New Jersey Devils with a 38-26-4 record, fighting for a playoff spot in the highly competitive Western Conference. Their season has been defined by streaky play, mixing dominant performances with frustrating inconsistency. The Flames have played well on the road, covering the spread in 55% of their away games, but they face a tough challenge against a Devils team that has been solid at home. With only a handful of games left in the regular season, every point is crucial, and Calgary will need to put together a complete performance to secure a win in Newark. Calgary’s offense has been solid, averaging 3.2 goals per game, making them a dangerous team when they establish offensive pressure. The Flames’ attack is spearheaded by Elias Lindholm, who leads the team with 75 points (30 goals, 45 assists). Lindholm’s ability to drive play in both zones makes him a key factor in Calgary’s success. Alongside him, Jonathan Huberdeau has found his offensive rhythm, contributing 70 points, including 50 assists, as one of the team’s top playmakers. Nazem Kadri has also been an important piece, bringing grit and scoring ability with 65 points (27 goals, 38 assists). The Flames’ offensive depth extends beyond their top scorers, with Andrew Mangiapane and Blake Coleman stepping up to provide secondary scoring. One of Calgary’s biggest strengths is its balanced offensive attack, with multiple lines capable of generating scoring chances. Their power play operates at a 22% efficiency rate, which, while not elite, has been effective in key moments. They will look to exploit New Jersey’s penalty kill, which ranks 82%, a respectable number but still vulnerable to high-paced offenses like Calgary’s. Special teams could play a major role in this game, and if the Flames can capitalize on their power play chances, they will put themselves in a strong position to secure a victory.

Defensively, the Flames have been above average, allowing 2.8 goals per game. Their blue line is led by Rasmus Andersson and Noah Hanifin, who both log heavy minutes and contribute at both ends of the ice. Andersson, in particular, has been a standout, providing strong two-way play and 45 points from the back end. MacKenzie Weegar and Chris Tanev add veteran stability to Calgary’s defense, helping keep their defensive structure intact. However, against a high-powered Devils offense led by Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier, Calgary’s defensive unit will need to be at its best to limit scoring chances. In net, Jacob Markström has been a difference-maker for Calgary, posting a .915 save percentage and four shutouts this season. He has been particularly strong in tight games, making clutch saves to keep his team in the fight. Given New Jersey’s offensive firepower, Markström will likely see a high volume of shots, making his performance a key factor in the Flames’ chances of winning. If he can keep the game close, Calgary’s offense has the firepower to take advantage of any defensive lapses by the Devils. From a betting standpoint, the Flames have been one of the stronger road teams against the spread, covering 55% of their away games this season. However, they have struggled historically against New Jersey, losing their last four meetings against the Devils. Their most recent matchup earlier this season resulted in a 4-3 home loss, in which Calgary struggled to contain Hughes and New Jersey’s transition game. The Flames will need to make defensive adjustments and avoid giving up odd-man rushes if they want to break that losing streak. For Calgary to come away with a win, they need to focus on defensive discipline, strong goaltending, and capitalizing on special teams opportunities. If Lindholm and Huberdeau can lead the offense while Markström stands tall in goal, the Flames will have a good chance of overcoming New Jersey’s home-ice advantage. However, if they allow the Devils to dictate the pace and struggle to contain Hughes and Hischier, it could be a long night for Calgary. This game will be a true test of the Flames’ ability to compete against top-tier Eastern Conference teams, and a win would provide a significant boost to their playoff push.