For the sixth time in NHL history, the Carolina Hurricanes and the New Jersey Devils are set to battle in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Their history favors Carolina, who have won their last four playoff series against the Devils, including a five-game series victory in the second round in 2023.
This upcoming series, a matchup between the second and third seeds in the Metropolitan Division, was anticipated for a while, especially after the Washington Capitals surged ahead in the division early in 2025. Despite some seeding swaps between the Devils and Hurricanes, the Metropolitan standings remained largely consistent in the latter half of the season.
However, the expectations surrounding both teams heading into this series are quite different, making this first-round matchup particularly intriguing.
Here’s a preview of what to expect as the Hurricanes and Devils prepare for Round 1.
HEAD-TO-HEAD SEASON SERIES
Carolina Hurricanes: 2 wins, 2 losses
New Jersey Devils: 2 wins, 2 losses
SERIES ANALYSIS
To understand what might unfold in this playoff series, it’s important to look at their performance in March. Both teams faced challenges that month, and their responses could dictate the series` outcome.
The Hurricanes have been playoff-bound all season. Despite a potentially disruptive situation with a trade involving Mikko Rantanen, Carolina managed to refocus and finish strong, reaffirming their status as a serious contender. Their consistent performance on both offense and defense stands in contrast to New Jersey’s season.
The Devils aimed to establish themselves as true contenders this year with a new coach, Sheldon Keefe, and a new starting goalie, Jacob Markstrom. The first half of the season showed promise, with the Devils ranking high in the Eastern Conference and boasting a strong offense and defense.
But, injuries, including Markstrom`s absence in January and later injuries to key players like Jack Hughes and Dougie Hamilton in March, derailed their momentum. Hughes is out for the season, but Hamilton has returned for Game 1.
The Devils have struggled in the second half of the season, with a decrease in scoring and wins. This offensive slump, combined with Carolina`s strong defensive play, puts New Jersey in a difficult position, especially with key players missing.
However, the Devils excel on special teams. While Carolina has an exceptional penalty kill, New Jersey isn`t far behind. Moreover, the Devils` power play is significantly better than Carolina’s, remaining a consistent strength throughout the season.
ADVANCED STATISTICS (5-on-5)
REGULAR SEASON TEAM STATISTICS
Hurricanes X-Factor: Jaccob Slavin
The Hurricanes have many strengths, including the emergence of young players like Logan Stankoven and Jackson Blake. However, their foundation is their strong defense, led by Jaccob Slavin. The veteran defenseman plays significant minutes and is crucial to Carolina`s league-leading defense and penalty kill. His role will be vital against New Jersey’s potent power play.
Devils X-Factor: Jacob Markstrom
Goaltending is always critical in the playoffs, especially for a team missing key offensive and defensive players. The Devils acquired veteran goalie Jacob Markstrom to address their goaltending concerns. But can he carry the team?
Midway through the season, Markstrom was among the league`s top goalies. However, after returning from a knee injury, his performance has declined. If the Devils hope to advance in the playoffs, they will need Markstrom to perform at his peak and steal games.
Tristan Blackwood