I asked Grok3 how the devils can win…
To defeat the Carolina Hurricanes in the 2025 NHL playoffs, the New Jersey Devils must counter Carolina’s league-leading offensive zone time and minimal defensive zone time. The Hurricanes’ game plan revolves around a relentless forecheck, high shot volume, and puck possession, which allows them to dominate territorially. Below is a strategic breakdown of how the Devils can overcome these challenges, focusing on key areas like breakouts, special teams, goaltending, and physical play, while addressing the absence of Jack Hughes and leveraging their strengths.
### 1. **Neutralize Carolina’s Forecheck and Improve Breakouts**
Carolina’s high-pressure forecheck (often a 1-2-2 or 2-1-2 setup) generates turnovers and sustains offensive zone time by pressuring both the strong and weak sides. The Devils must execute clean, quick breakouts to evade this pressure and turn it into counterattack opportunities.
- **Quick Decision-Making and Tape-to-Tape Passes**: The Devils’ defensemen (e.g., Brett Pesce, Luke Hughes, Brenden Dillon) and goaltender Jacob Markstrom need to make rapid decisions under pressure. Precise, tape-to-tape passes to forwards exiting the defensive zone can bypass Carolina’s forecheckers (F1 and F2). This creates odd-man rushes, exploiting gaps left by Carolina’s aggressive forecheck.[](https://www.nhl.com/devils/news/3-keys-to-the-series-feature-4-19-25)
- **Use Speed Through the Neutral Zone**: The Devils are known for their speed and dynamism. Players like Jesper Bratt, Nico Hischier, and Timo Meier should use quick transitions to transport the puck into Carolina’s zone before their defense resets. This can disrupt Carolina’s ability to sustain offensive pressure.
- **Defensemen as Outlet Options**: Defensemen like Dougie Hamilton (returning from injury) and Luke Hughes, both puck-moving dynamos, should join the rush or act as outlet passers to stretch Carolina’s forecheck. This can create numerical advantages on counterattacks.[](https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/news/2025-playoffs-carolina-hurricanes-new-jersey-devils-series-preview-pick-prediction-schedule)
If the Devils fail to break out cleanly, they risk being pinned in their defensive zone, where Carolina’s +554 shot differential (league-best) and ability to generate rebounds (25% of Devils’ shot attempts create rebounds) can overwhelm them.[](https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/37527957/stanley-cup-playoffs-hurricanes-devils-game-3-predictions)[](https://www.nhl.com/devils/news/3-keys-to-the-series-feature-4-19-25)
### 2. **Win the Special Teams Battle**
Special teams could be the deciding factor, as both teams excel in this area, but the Devils have a slight edge on the power play.
- **Exploit the Power Play**: The Devils boast the NHL’s third-ranked power play (28.2%), which remained effective (28.6%) even without Jack Hughes and Dougie Hamilton. Nico Hischier (14 PPGs) and Stefan Noesen (11 PPGs) are key threats, and Hamilton’s return adds a dangerous shot from the blue line. The Devils must draw penalties through aggressive puck possession and capitalize against Carolina’s 25th-ranked power play (18.7%). In their four regular-season games, the Devils went 3-for-8 on the power play against Carolina, showing they can score here.[](https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/news/2025-playoffs-carolina-hurricanes-new-jersey-devils-series-preview-pick-prediction-schedule)[](https://www.nhl.com/devils/news/3-keys-to-the-series-feature-4-19-25)[](https://www.allaboutthejersey.com/2025/4/19/24405826/2025-nhl-playoffs-first-round-series-preview-new-jersey-devils-carolina-hurricanes)
- **Neutralize Carolina’s Penalty Kill**: Carolina’s league-best penalty kill (84.1%) is disruptive, led by Jordan Staal, Jordan Martinook, Sebastian Aho, and Seth Jarvis, who also contribute 10 shorthanded goals (tied for fourth in the NHL). The Devils must avoid turnovers on the power play and use quick puck movement to create seams, focusing on net-front presence (e.g., Noesen) and low-to-high plays to Hamilton or Luke Hughes.[](https://www.nhl.com/news/carolina-hurricanes-new-jersey-devils-eastern-first-round-series-preview)[](https://www.nhl.com/devils/news/3-keys-to-the-series-feature-4-19-25)
- **Stay Disciplined**: The Devils’ penalty kill (82.7%, second in the NHL) is strong but has been leakier late in the season. They must avoid penalties to limit Carolina’s chances, as the Hurricanes’ depth can exploit power-play opportunities despite their lower conversion rate.[](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6279347/2025/04/16/2025-nhl-playoff-preview-carolina-hurricanes-vs-new-jersey-devils/)[](https://www.nhl.com/news/carolina-hurricanes-new-jersey-devils-eastern-first-round-series-preview)
### 3. **Rely on Elite Goaltending from Jacob Markstrom**
Goaltending will be critical, especially against Carolina’s high shot volume. Jacob Markstrom (26-16-6, 2.50 GAA, .900 SV%) gives the Devils an edge over Carolina’s unsettled goaltending tandem of Frederik Andersen (13-6-1, 2.20 GAA, .911 SV%) and Pyotr Kochetkov (26-15-3, 2.58 GAA, .898 SV%), who split starts evenly.
- **Markstrom Must Steal Games**: Markstrom’s 2-1 record and .916 save percentage against Carolina this season suggest he can handle their volume shooting (lower shooting percentage compared to the Devils’ quality chances). His five quality starts in his last seven games indicate he’s peaking, but he must avoid the occasional “awful” start. The Devils’ defense, bolstered by Brian Dumoulin and Jonathan Kovacevic, should insulate him by clearing rebounds and limiting second-chance opportunities.[](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6279347/2025/04/16/2025-nhl-playoff-preview-carolina-hurricanes-vs-new-jersey-devils/)[](https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/news/2025-playoffs-carolina-hurricanes-new-jersey-devils-series-preview-pick-prediction-schedule)
- **Capitalize on Goaltending Uncertainty**: Carolina’s rotation of Andersen and Kochetkov creates uncertainty, as neither has been confirmed as the playoff starter. Kochetkov’s .878 save percentage against the Devils is a potential weakness. The Devils should generate high-danger chances early to test the starter and force Carolina to second-guess their choice.[](https://www.nhl.com/devils/news/3-keys-to-the-series-feature-4-19-25)
### 4. **Match Carolina’s Physicality and Win Battles**
Carolina thrives on winning 1-on-1 battles, using their depth and forecheck to wear down opponents. The Devils, despite missing Hughes, have added size and toughness to compete physically.
- **Heavy, Structured Play**: Additions like Stefan Noesen (6’1”), Brenden Dillon (6’4”), and Timo Meier bring physicality to counter Carolina’s heaviness along the boards. The Devils must play a structured, physical game to win puck battles, as Jesper Bratt noted: “If you’re weak in the battles, you’re going to be playing in your own zone a lot.” This is crucial to limit Carolina’s cycle game and offensive zone time.[](https://www.nhl.com/news/new-jersey-devils-clinch-playoff-spot-will-play-carolina-hurricanes-in-first-round)[](https://www.nhl.com/news/carolina-hurricanes-new-jersey-devils-eastern-first-round-series-preview)
- **Defensive Depth to Shut Down Depth Scoring**: Carolina’s forward depth (10 players with 10+ goals) is a strength, led by Sebastian Aho (74 points) and Seth Jarvis (32 goals). The Devils’ defense, including Pesce, Kovacevic, and Dumoulin, must neutralize Carolina’s third and fourth lines (e.g., Jordan Staal, Jordan Martinook) to prevent secondary scoring. Luke Hughes’ two-way improvement (55.1% chance share) under coach Sheldon Keefe will be key in shutting down Carolina’s depth.[](https://www.nhl.com/news/carolina-hurricanes-new-jersey-devils-eastern-first-round-series-preview)[](https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/news/2025-playoffs-carolina-hurricanes-new-jersey-devils-series-preview-pick-prediction-schedule)
### 5. **Generate Quality Scoring Chances via Transition**
While Carolina dominates offensive zone time through sustained pressure, the Devils excel at generating quality scoring chances through quick transitions, which can offset Carolina’s territorial advantage.
- **Capitalize on Counterattacks**: The Devils should use their speed to create high-danger chances off turnovers forced by their big, heavy defense (e.g., Dillon, Kovacevic) clogging passing lanes. Posts on X emphasize that suppressing Carolina’s zone exits in waves can allow the Devils to control the series by turning defense into offense.
- **Focus on High-Danger Areas**: Unlike Carolina’s volume-shooting approach, the Devils should prioritize quality over quantity. Players like Hischier, Bratt, and Meier must target high-danger areas, as the Devils struggle to convert at five-on-five without Hughes (outscored 27-42 since his injury).[](https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/news/2025-playoffs-carolina-hurricanes-new-jersey-devils-series-preview-pick-prediction-schedule)
### 6. **Exploit Carolina’s Five-on-Five Finishing Struggles**
Carolina’s five-on-five play is dominant in possession and shot attempts (+1,530 differential), but their finishing has been a relative weakness, with a lower shooting percentage compared to the Devils’ quality-driven offense.[](https://www.allaboutthejersey.com/2023/5/2/23707658/2023-nhl-playoffs-second-round-series-preview-new-jersey-devils-carolina-hurricanes)
- **Force Low-Percentage Shots**: The Devils’ defense should push Carolina’s shooters to the perimeter, limiting high-danger chances. In 2023, 66% of the Devils’ shot attempts against Carolina were through traffic, reducing clean looks. A similar approach can frustrate Carolina’s volume shooters.[](https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/37527957/stanley-cup-playoffs-hurricanes-devils-game-3-predictions)
- **Counter with Efficient Scoring**: The Devils’ top forwards (Hischier, Bratt, Meier) must be clinical in transition, as their five-on-five scoring has lagged without Hughes. Hamilton’s return could boost offensive output from the blue line, creating more chances at even strength.[](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6279347/2025/04/16/2025-nhl-playoff-preview-carolina-hurricanes-vs-new-jersey-devils/)
### 7. **Overcome the Historical and Psychological Hurdle**
Carolina has won four of five playoff series against the Devils, including a five-game victory in 2023. The Devils must change the narrative by starting strong and maintaining confidence.
- **Set the Tone Early**: A strong Game 1 on the road (Sunday, April 20, 3 p.m. ET) is critical, especially with Carolina’s 31-9-1 home record. The Devils should leverage their 23-16-2 road record and Markstrom’s ability to steal games to quiet the Lenovo Center crowd.[](https://www.nhl.com/news/carolina-hurricanes-new-jersey-devils-eastern-first-round-series-preview)[](https://www.northjersey.com/story/sports/nhl/devils/2025/04/17/new-jersey-devils-carolina-hurricanes-schedule-2025-nhl-playoffs-time-tv-channel/83143793007/)
- **Lean on Leadership**: Captain Nico Hischier, who has shown two-way improvement (57% expected goals percentage), must lead by example in tough matchups against Aho or Jarvis. Hischier’s career-high 14 power-play goals and ability to drive possession make him the key to filling Hughes’ void.[](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6279347/2025/04/16/2025-nhl-playoff-preview-carolina-hurricanes-vs-new-jersey-devils/)[](https://www.nhl.com/devils/news/3-keys-to-the-series-feature-4-19-25)
### Key Players to Watch
- **Nico Hischier**: Must dominate possession and power-play situations while matching up against Aho or Staal.[](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6279347/2025/04/16/2025-nhl-playoff-preview-carolina-hurricanes-vs-new-jersey-devils/)
- **Jesper Bratt**: Leads with 88 points and 34 power-play points; his speed and creativity are vital in transition.[](https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/news/2025-playoffs-carolina-hurricanes-new-jersey-devils-series-preview-pick-prediction-schedule)
- **Jacob Markstrom**: Needs to replicate his .916 save percentage against Carolina to counter their shot volume.[](https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/news/2025-playoffs-carolina-hurricanes-new-jersey-devils-series-preview-pick-prediction-schedule)
- **Dougie Hamilton**: His return boosts the power play and five-on-five offense, but he must avoid defensive lapses.[](https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/teams/new_jersey_devils/92)
- **Luke Hughes**: His two-way growth and puck-moving ability can spark breakouts and limit Carolina’s cycle.[](https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/news/2025-playoffs-carolina-hurricanes-new-jersey-devils-series-preview-pick-prediction-schedule)
### Challenges to Overcome
- **No Jack Hughes**: Hughes’ absence (70 points, ninth in the NHL) weakens five-on-five scoring and depth. The Devils must rely on Hischier, Bratt, and Meier to step up offensively.[](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6279347/2025/04/16/2025-nhl-playoff-preview-carolina-hurricanes-vs-new-jersey-devils/)[](https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/news/2025-playoffs-carolina-hurricanes-new-jersey-devils-series-preview-pick-prediction-schedule)
- **Carolina’s Depth**: With 10 players scoring 10+ goals, Carolina can roll four lines effectively. The Devils’ bottom-six forwards (e.g., Ondrej Palat, Dawson Mercer) must contribute to match this depth.[](https://www.nhl.com/news/new-jersey-devils-clinch-playoff-spot-will-play-carolina-hurricanes-in-first-round)[](https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/news/2025-playoffs-carolina-hurricanes-new-jersey-devils-series-preview-pick-prediction-schedule)
- **Injury Concerns**: Jonas Siegenthaler’s likely absence and Hamilton’s rust after missing 18 games could strain the defense. Dumoulin and Kovacevic must stabilize the second pair.[](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6279347/2025/04/16/2025-nhl-playoff-preview-carolina-hurricanes-vs-new-jersey-devils/)[](https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/news/2025-playoffs-carolina-hurricanes-new-jersey-devils-series-preview-pick-prediction-schedule)
### Prediction
The Devils are underdogs, with the longest odds to advance among playoff teams, per TheScore. However, their elite power play, strong penalty kill, and Markstrom’s goaltending give them a fighting chance. If they execute clean breakouts, win special teams battles, and match Carolina’s physicality, they can exploit Carolina’s five-on-five finishing issues and goaltending uncertainty. The series will likely be tight, with special teams and goaltending tipping the scales.[](https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/teams/new_jersey_devils/92)
**Keys to Victory**: Quick breakouts to counter the forecheck, a disciplined power play, Markstrom stealing games, and physical play to disrupt Carolina’s cycle. If the Devils split the first two games in Carolina and leverage their home games (Games 3 and 4), they could push the series to six or seven games.
**Final Note**: The Devils must play with urgency and structure, as they did in their 2023 Game 3 rout (8-4), to rediscover their offensive swagger and overcome Carolina’s territorial dominance. Belief in their system, as emphasized by coach Sheldon Keefe, and contributions from returning players like Hamilton and Ondrej Palat, will be crucial.[](https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/37575069/stanley-cup-playoffs-hurricanes-devils-game-4-predictions)[](https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/teams/new_jersey_devils/92)
