The Carolina Hurricanes will host the New Jersey Devils on March 28, 2026, at the Lenovo Center, showcasing two teams with starkly different trajectories this season. The Hurricanes boast an impressive record of 45-20-6 and lead the Eastern Conference with 96 points, while the Devils sit at 37-32-2 and are currently 13th in the conference with 76 points.
Key players for the Hurricanes include Sebastian Aho, who has recorded 72 points this season, comprising 25 goals and 47 assists over 71 games. In goal, Brandon Bussi has conceded 82 goals with a goals-against average of 2.5 and an .895 save percentage, ranking 37th in the league.
On the other hand, the Devils’ standout player, Jesper Bratt, has accumulated 61 points this season, with 19 goals and 42 assists. However, their goaltending situation has been less favorable, as Jacob Markstrom has allowed 118 goals and has a goals-against average of 3.1, with a save percentage of .884, placing him 57th in the league.
The Devils have struggled significantly this season, especially after a promising start, and now find themselves on the brink of missing the postseason. The loss of key players has further compounded their challenges, with Pyotr Kochetkov sidelined due to a hip injury and Zack MacEwen out for the season with an ACL injury.
As the matchup approaches, observers are keen to see if the Hurricanes can maintain their dominance in the Eastern Conference against a struggling Devils team. The outcome of this game could have significant implications for both teams as the regular season nears its conclusion.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any last-minute changes to the rosters or injuries leading up to the game.