Washington Capitals at New Jersey Devils Picks and Prediction, Saturday December 27, 2025
The Washington Capitals (19-13-5) hit the road to face the New Jersey Devils (20-16-1) on Saturday night.
These teams met once already, with the Devils earning a 3-2 win as a +131 underdog in November. With both clubs fighting for position in a tight Metropolitan Division race, this shapes up as an important game with clear betting value on both the side and the total.
Let’s break down where the edge lies in this Capitals vs. Devils matchup.
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The losing continues
Washington has dropped six of its last seven games, including back-to-back losses to Detroit and a lopsided 7-3 defeat against the Rangers in their last game. Over their last six games, the Capitals have been outscored 25-12, with defensive breakdowns and untimely penalties becoming a recurring issue.
To their credit, Washington’s season-long numbers remain strong. The Caps are averaging 3.2 goals per game (11th in the NHL) while allowing just 2.6 goals per game, the third-best mark in the league. Logan Thompson is expected to get the start and has been one of Washington’s most reliable performers, posting a 2.24 GAA with a 14-9-3 record and a .917 save percentage.
Devils looking to protect home ice
New Jersey enters on a two-game skid after losses to Buffalo and the Islanders, but the Devils remain a dangerous offensive team, especially at home. They generate 29.2 shots per game (10th) and boast scoring depth led by Nico Hischier, Jack Hughes, Jesper Bratt, and Timo Meier.
The Devils’ power play ranks 13th in the league and should have opportunities against a Washington team that’s been undisciplined during this slump. Defensively, New Jersey allows 3.0 goals per game (14th) and sits 22nd in shots allowed, giving opponents chances when coverage breaks down.
Jacob Markstrom is the likely starter, and while his numbers (9-8-1, 3.33 GAA, .883 save percentage) leave something to be desired, New Jersey’s ability to control pace at home helps mitigate that risk.
Capitals vs. Devils Prediction
| # | Handicapper | Profit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |  Tony Karpinski | +2,976.00 |
| 2 |  Joe Duffy | +2,595.00 |
| 3 |  The Insiders Room | +2,320.00 |
| 4 |  Mark Ruelle | +1,627.00 |
| 5 |  Jackie Mack | +1,451.00 |
Capitals vs Devils Moneyline Play
- New Jersey Devil ML -120 (4 units)
This is a strong situational spot for New Jersey. The Devils have the home-ice edge and a favorable matchup against a Washington team that’s clearly searching for answers. While the Capitals look strong on paper, their recent execution has been sloppy, particularly in their own zone.
Expect New Jersey to set the tempo early and capitalize on power-play chances, and get the win.
Capitals vs Devils Total Play
- Under 5.5 (4 units)
Washington has been one of the best defensive teams in the league all season, allowing just 2.6 goals per game, which ranks third in the NHL. Even during their recent struggles, the Capitals haven’t been consistently getting overwhelmed. Most of the goals they’ve allowed have come in short stretches, not from being dominated for full games. On the other side, New Jersey has played to the under more often at home and ranks 30th in shooting percentage overall. I like the under here.
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