Predictions Carolina Hurricanes vs New Jersey Devils | NHL 17.01.26

Carolina Hurricanes vs New Jersey Devils Game Analysis | 18-01-2026 | NHL

As the NHL regular season continues, a compelling Eastern Conference clash is set for January 18, 2026, at 12:00 AM EST in the Prudential Center, Newark. The Carolina Hurricanes (29-15-4) visit the New Jersey Devils (24-21-2) in a matchup with significant playoff implications for both squads.

Carolina Hurricanes Team Performance

The Carolina Hurricanes arrive in Newark boasting a formidable record, indicative of their consistent two-way play. Their strength lies in a structured defensive system and a potent offense capable of generating high-danger chances. They excel at puck possession and suffocating forechecking, often dictating the pace of play. However, the recent injury to their starting goaltender poses a significant challenge, potentially impacting their traditionally stellar save percentages and overall defensive confidence.

Carolina Hurricanes Key Players

• Points: Sebastian Aho (45)
• Goals: Seth Jarvis (21)
• Assists: Sebastian Aho (28)

Injury Report Carolina Hurricanes

• Shayne Gostisbehere (Out): Gostisbehere will miss Friday’s game versus the Panthers due to a lower-body injury.
• Noah Philp (Injured reserve): Philp (concussion) was placed on injured reserve Friday.
• Pyotr Kochetkov (Injured reserve): Kochetkov (lower body) will undergo surgery and is expected to miss the rest of the campaign.

New Jersey Devils Team Performance

The New Jersey Devils have shown flashes of brilliance this season, characterized by their blistering speed and offensive creativity, particularly from their young core. Despite their talent, consistency has been a hurdle, leading to a middling record. Their ability to transition quickly and generate odd-man rushes makes them a dangerous opponent, especially on home ice. However, defensive lapses and inconsistent goaltending have often undermined their offensive prowess.

New Jersey Devils Key Players

• Points: Nico Hischier (37)
• Goals: Nico Hischier (15)
• Assists: Jesper Bratt (25)

Injury Report New Jersey Devils

• Zack MacEwen (Injured reserve): MacEwen had knee surgery and will be lost for the remainder of the season.

Prediction: Carolina Hurricanes vs New Jersey Devils

Considering the Hurricanes’ superior record and disciplined structure, they hold a slight edge despite being on the road and facing goaltending challenges. The Devils’ home-ice advantage and offensive firepower, led by Nico Hischier and Jesper Bratt, will keep them competitive. However, Carolina’s depth and resilience, even with Pyotr Kochetkov out, should see them through. We predict the Carolina Hurricanes to win. Given the offensive capabilities of both teams and the Hurricanes’ injury in net, we anticipate a higher-scoring affair, predicting the total goals to be over 5.5.