Anaheim Ducks (10-18-0) vs. New Jersey Devils (15-11-1)
Ducks vs. Devils 12/17/23 – On Sunday, fans and bettors can look forward to an intriguing matchup between Anaheim Ducks and New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center and broadcast live via ESPN+ – an important game in both teams’ seasons and prospects. Fans seeking best NHL free picks should pay particular attention as this matchup may provide key insight into both squads.
Though their overall record hasn’t been stellar, the Ducks have shown some offensive promise this season. Frank Vatrano and Mason McTavish have been key components to recent Duck performances – Vatrano has 14 goals and 9 assists while McTavish boasts 10 goals and 11 assists of his own; their effectiveness will be closely scrutinized against a Devils defense that has experienced its share of ups and downs while remaining formidable opponent.
New Jersey’s offensive unit led by Jack Hughes and Jesper Bratt has been more consistent this season, recording 34 points between 11 goals and 23 assists for Hughes; Bratt added 33. Both players’ abilities will be crucial in breaking through an inconsistant Ducks defense that remains resilient when it comes to breaking open certain shots on goal.
Ducks vs. Devils 12/17/23 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 17, 2023 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Prudential Center |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender John Gibson vs. Goaltender Vitek Vanecek
John Gibson entered this season with high expectations. Gibson has taken a noticeable step backward through 28 starts this year. His inflated 2.89 goals against average ranks 35th league-wide among qualified netminders, while his .904 save percentage sits 44th. The American-born goalie also already surrendered 54 goals, just two shy of his total from all of last season. Gibson especially struggles on high-danger chances, stopping just 80.8% compared to 86.2% across his career. Anaheim allows him to see plenty of rubber behind their porous defense, averaging 33.5 shots against per 60 minutes. That heavy workload combined with underperformance lands some blame on Gibson’s shoulders. Still, he showed ability to rise in big moments during past playoff runs.
Vitek Vanecek heads to New Jersey with a fresh start after the Capitals deemed him expendable this offseason. The Devils acquired the 26-year-old hoping he could solidify their unsettled goaltending situation. However, Vanecek has posted mixed results through 18 starts in his new uniform. While his .883 save percentage aligns closely with his career mark, Vanecek’s 3.33 goals against average leaves much to be desired. Vanecek also stones opponents on dangerous chances at a respectable 17.9% rate. He simply needs to limit mistakes and bring stability behind a developing blueline core. If Vanecek maintains focus and confidence, he can withstand pressure from Anaheim’s forwards. But his unremarkable performance thus far makes it difficult to expect shutdown netminding tonight.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds and point spreads for this game remain TBD, but it’s likely that the Devils, with their better record, might be favored. However, the Ducks have shown they can be unpredictable, making this a potentially close contest.
Anaheim Ducks Betting Trends
The Ducks ride a 4-1 surge their last five overall but remain just 2-3 against the spread during that span. Anaheim also covers at a 7-5 clip on the road this year. Furthermore, totals stayed under in three of their previous five matchups. The Ducks tend to play games close, with 13 of their 28 contests decided by one goal.
New Jersey Devils Betting Trends
Winners of four of five, New Jersey covers the spread just twice across that stretch. The over cashes in five straight for the Devils, who see 60% of their games eclipse the total overall. That scoring trend frequently emerges on home ice as well, going over in 10 of 13. New Jersey typically skips past opponents, as just eight of their 27 games finish within one goal.
Anaheim Ducks vs. New Jersey Devils 12/17/23 Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and betting trends, this matchup is shaping up to be tightly contested. The Devils might have the edge due to their superior record and offensive firepower. However, the Ducks have shown they can rise to the occasion, especially in recent games.
For betting picks, it could be wise to lean towards the Devils, but the Ducks’ recent form should not be underestimated. Prop bets on individual performances could provide value, given the offensive talents on display.
The Ducks’ recent form suggests they will put up a formidable fight, making this an intriguing game for fans and bettors alike. Stay tuned for premium insights as the game approaches for more detailed predictions.
Free Pick and Prediction: New Jersey Devils 4, Anaheim Ducks 3