Devils vs. Penguins in Battle of the Streak: Who Will Keep Their Winning Streak Alive?
The New Jersey Devils will face off against the Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG Paints Arena this Saturday at 3:00 p.m. EDT. With New Jersey coming off a three-game win streak, alongside Mrs. Fields, the cookie, with her second straight win in the Dessert Race, the Devils and their fans are eager to keep the streak alive. Pittsburgh is also in solid form, riding a three-game win streak, which includes a victory over the Vegas Golden Knights, the top team in the Pacific Division. Saturday’s matchup is sure to stir up tension within the Metropolitan Division, as both teams vie to preserve their winning streaks.
The Brattman Signal: Jesper Bratt Takes the Lead
Although the news surrounding Dougie Hamilton on Thursday was a tremendous letdown for fans, the Devils continue to establish themselves in the standings, sitting eight points ahead of the Columbus Blue Jackets and New York Rangers in the Metropolitan Division. Forward Jesper Bratt and defenseman Simon Nemec both scored just 1:25 apart during Thursday’s game against the Edmonton Oilers, showcasing the team’s strong collaboration and relentless drive. Bratt has been especially impressive in recent games, particularly in the absence of Jack Hughes and Jonas Siegenthaler. He contributed a goal and two assists in Tuesday’s victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets. In players like Bratt’s pursuit of consistency, the Devils demonstrate that they are a formidable threat.
“O Captain! My Captain!”: Sidney Crosby’s Recent Impact
Despite their success in the last three games, the Penguins remain at the bottom of the division with only 64 points. Coming off a win at the 4 Nations Face-Off, Penguins captain Sidney Crosby has proven to be a true fighter for both Canada and Pittsburgh, as he works to lift his team up the division standings. The forward recently had four consecutive goals for the Penguins, netting the last two goals against the Minnesota Wild last Sunday and the first two against the Vegas Golden Knights on Tuesday. His offensive spark provides a much-needed momentum for the team, as the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline and three key player injuries have forced changes that have distracted them from reaching the Stanley Cup Playoffs this season. The Penguins may have very little to play for, but Crosby’s intimidating determination makes the team a tough opponent.
The Result?
In terms of performance, the Devils lead the season series 2-0 and have a 9-1-0 record in their last 10 games against the Penguins. With detrimental injuries on both sides, both teams will need strong, all-around efforts to protect their streaks. The Devils will look to Jesper Bratt to step up in the absence of key contributors, while the Penguins will need Sidney Crosby to maintain his dominance. With both teams fighting to stay competitive, Saturday’s matchup becomes even more crucial as they aim to preserve their progress.
