The New Jersey Devils have had an eventful season, with General Manager Tom Fitzgerald making strategic moves to bolster the team. Despite initial promise, injuries have taken a toll, leading to uncertainty about their final placement in the Eastern Conference playoff bracket. As they prepare to face the Edmonton Oilers in a crucial matchup, the Devils currently hold the No. 3 spot in the Metro Division with 76 points. However, stiff competition from teams like the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Ottawa Senators could shake up their standings.

Playoff Projections and Predictions

Based on projections from Stathletes, the Devils are expected to secure a playoff spot with 94 points, likely maintaining their hold on the No. 3 position. The Blue Jackets, projected for 86.7 points, are breathing down their necks, making every game crucial for the Devils. With only five games left against current playoff teams out of 15 total contests, every point matters as they strive to secure their postseason berth.

Current Playoff Matchups and Standings

The playoff picture is starting to take shape across the league, with teams vying for coveted playoff positions. In the Eastern Conference, the Florida Panthers lead the Atlantic Division, while the Washington Capitals hold the top spot in the Metro Division. Over in the Western Conference, the Winnipeg Jets are dominating the Central Division, with the Vegas Golden Knights leading the Pacific Division. As teams jostle for position, every game becomes a critical opportunity to secure a playoff berth or improve their seeding.

Thursday’s games are set to be high-stakes matchups, with teams battling it out for crucial points in the standings. From the Florida Panthers taking on the Toronto Maple Leafs to the Washington Capitals facing off against the Los Angeles Kings, every game has playoff implications. Fans can catch all the action on various platforms, including ESPN+ and local networks, as the race for the playoffs heats up.

As the regular season winds down, the intensity of each game only increases, with teams leaving it all on the ice to secure their spot in the postseason. With expert predictions and player performances shaping the playoff race, the final stretch promises to be a thrilling ride for hockey fans everywhere. Stay tuned as the drama unfolds, and teams fight for a chance at Stanley Cup glory.