New Jersey Devils vs. Montreal Canadiens Picks and Predictions April 5, 2026
Use Code WWWC We’ve got an Eastern Conference matchup on Sunday as the New Jersey Devils travel to face the Montreal Canadiens. With the regular season nearing its conclusion, this game carries extreme urgency for New Jersey, while Montreal continues focusing on their breakout year. Get in on the action with our free NHL picks.
Devils Leaning on Offensive Firepower
New Jersey enters this matchup as the more dynamic offensive team, driven by speed, skill, and high-end talent throughout its forward group.
Jack Hughes (70 points) continues to lead the Devils offensively, producing at well above a point-per-game pace and serving as the primary playmaker. His ability to create scoring chances off the rush and in the offensive zone makes him one of the most dangerous young forwards in the league.
Alongside him, Jesper Bratt (47 assists) has remained a consistent contributor, providing both scoring and playmaking on the top line. Nico Hischier (62 points) adds two-way stability down the middle, contributing offensively while also handling key defensive responsibilities.
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The Devils’ strength lies in their pace. They generate a high volume of chances through transition and sustained offensive pressure. When they are playing at their tempo, they can overwhelm teams that struggle defensively.
However, inconsistency in their own zone and streaky goaltending have been concerns at times this season. While their offense can compensate, defensive lapses can keep opponents in games.
Strengths
- High-end offensive talent led by Hughes
- Strong transition game
- Depth scoring across multiple lines
- Ability to generate high shot volume
Weaknesses
- Defensive inconsistency
- Goaltending volatility
- Can allow high-danger chances against
Canadiens Continuing to Build Consistency
Montreal enters this matchup in a transitional phase, showing improvement but still lacking the consistency needed to compete with stronger offensive teams.
Nick Suzuki (95 points) leads the Canadiens in scoring, continuing to develop into a reliable top-line center. His vision and playmaking ability are key to Montreal’s offensive structure.
Cole Caufield (49 goals) remains the team’s primary goal-scoring threat, using his quick release to generate offense, particularly on the power play. Meanwhile, Juraj Slafkovsky (67 points) has taken steps forward, contributing more consistently and adding physical presence along the boards.
Despite these positives, Montreal has struggled defensively, particularly against faster teams. They often allow extended offensive zone time and have difficulty limiting high-quality chances.
Goaltending has also been inconsistent, which has made it difficult for the Canadiens to stay competitive when facing high-powered offenses like New Jersey’s.
Strengths
- Top-line production from Suzuki and Caufield
- Young players continuing to develop
- Capable of generating offense in spurts
Weaknesses
- Defensive structure issues
- Inconsistent goaltending
- Difficulty handling fast-paced opponents
- Limited scoring depth
Devils vs. Canadiens Picks
- Devils ML (5 Units)
New Jersey holds a clear advantage in offensive firepower and pace. Their ability to generate chances in transition and sustain pressure in the offensive zone should create problems for a Montreal defense that has struggled against speed. We have identified this as an excellent value spot to take New Jersey as the underdog, with their offensive ability giving them a real shot here against Montreal.
While the Canadiens may find some offensive success, particularly on the power play, the Devils’ depth and scoring ability should allow them to separate over the course of the game.
Total Pick:
- Over 6.5 Goals (5 Units)
This matchup sets up well for a higher-scoring game.
New Jersey plays at a fast pace and generates a high volume of shots, while Montreal has struggled defensively and in net. At the same time, the Devils’ defensive inconsistencies can allow the Canadiens to contribute offensively.
With both teams capable of creating chances, and neither consistently shutting opponents down, the over presents value.
Projected Final Score
Devils 5 Canadiens 3
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