Calgary Flames vs New Jersey Devils Prediction | NHL 03.12.26

Calgary Flames vs New Jersey Devils Game Analysis | 03.12.26 | NHL

The regular season brings an intriguing matchup as the Calgary Flames (25-32-7) travel to Prudential Center in Newark to face the New Jersey Devils (32-30-2) on December 26, 2026, at 7:00 PM. This contest features two teams navigating different trajectories in the competitive NHL landscape, with the Devils looking to solidify their playoff push and the Flames aiming for greater consistency.

Calgary Flames Team Performance

The Calgary Flames arrive with a challenging 25-32-7 record, indicative of a team struggling for consistency. Their performance has been marked by defensive vulnerabilities and an offense that, while capable of flashes, often lacks the sustained pressure needed to secure wins. Goaltending has been a fluctuating factor, placing additional strain on a roster striving to find its identity. The absence of key offensive production has hindered their ability to climb the standings.

Calgary Flames Key Players

• Points: Mikael Backlund (36)
• Goals: Joel Farabee (15)
• Assists: Mikael Backlund (23)

Injury Report Calgary Flames

• Jonathan Huberdeau (Injured reserve): Huberdeau (hip) was put on injured reserve Saturday, per the NHL media site.

New Jersey Devils Team Performance

Conversely, the New Jersey Devils, with a 32-30-2 record, present a more formidable challenge, particularly on home ice. Their hallmark is a dynamic, high-octane offense driven by elite young talent, capable of exploiting defensive gaps. While their offensive prowess is undeniable, the Devils have at times been plagued by defensive lapses and inconsistent goaltending, preventing them from solidifying a top-tier position. The challenge for New Jersey lies in marrying their offensive firepower with a more robust defensive structure.

New Jersey Devils Key Players

• Points: Jesper Bratt (48)
• Goals: Nico Hischier (21)
• Assists: Jesper Bratt (34)

Injury Report New Jersey Devils

• Brett Pesce (Out): Pesce (lower body) is considered week-to-week, Mike Morreale of NHL.com reports Friday.
• Zack MacEwen (Injured reserve): MacEwen had knee surgery and will be lost for the remainder of the season, Kristy Flannery of The Hockey News reports Saturday.

Prediction: Calgary Flames vs New Jersey Devils

Considering the Devils’ superior offensive depth and home-ice advantage against a struggling Flames squad, New Jersey is poised to control the pace. Despite their defensive vulnerabilities, their ability to generate high-quality scoring chances should overwhelm Calgary. The Flames’ recent struggles, compounded by key injuries, make a road victory a formidable task. Expect a high-scoring affair given both teams’ tendencies.

Predicted Winner: New Jersey Devils -1.5 (Spread)
Total Goals: Over 5.5