When the Chicago Blackhawks host the New Jersey Devils in their upcoming showdown, all eyes will naturally turn to the rising stars and changing dynamics that define this rivalry. In this article we’ll break down the storylines, key players and what to watch for in the “devils vs blackhawks” clash.
1. Rivalry Snapshot
The Blackhawks and Devils have met over 120 times in NHL history, with a nearly even head-to-head record: Chicago has won 52 of 123, New Jersey 50, with 21 ties.
In their last 10 games against each other the Blackhawks have managed just 2 wins, 7 losses and 1 tie.
That recent trend gives the Devils the psychological edge heading into matchups.
2. Current Form & Matchup Context
Heading into their meeting, New Jersey sits at 11-4-1 while Chicago is 8-5-3.
The Blackhawks are coming in with a three-game winning streak.
Conversely, the Devils have been consistent and have had the better recent track record vs Chicago. The Devils have actually beaten the Blackhawks six straight times.
So although Chicago enjoys home ice and momentum, New Jersey has the upper hand historically and on overall form.
3. Key Players to Watch
a) Connor Bedard & the Blackhawks offence
Bedard is emerging as a central figure for the Blackhawks. In recent games he’s registered an impressive multi-assist stretch (11 assists in his last seven games) as Chicago leans on his playmaking ability.
His presence gives Chicago a spark and makes “blackhawks game” storylines compelling for fans and analysts alike.
b) Šimon Nemec & the Devils’ rising defence
For the Devils, Šimon Nemec has rapidly grown in importance. A defensive talent with offensive upside, he’s started making big plays in crucial moments.
His development gives New Jersey additional dimension and helps them defend against threats like Bedard.
c) Nick Foligno & veteran influence
While younger stars get headlines, folks like Nick Foligno bring experience to their clubs. Chicago still benefits from veterans who stabilise the lineup and step up in key moments.
4. What the Stats Are Saying
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Chicago averages about 3.3 goals per game recently, while giving up roughly 2.3.
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New Jersey averages about 3.3 goals scored and 2.9 conceded per game.
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In head-to-head matchups, Chicago has struggled: 2-7-1 in last 10.
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Betting trends show New Jersey being favoured in the “devils vs blackhawks” fixture, partly on the basis of their consistent wins and Chicago’s recent weaknesses.
These numbers indicate that although the Blackhawks have the home advantage and momentum, the Devils are the more stable team and likely to control the pace.
5. Why This Game Matters
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For Chicago: A chance to build on momentum and shift the narrative. With young core pieces like Bedard, they want to show they’re entering a new era of competitiveness.
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For New Jersey: Establishing themselves as a serious contender against all opponents. Beating the Blackhawks again reinforces their depth and reliability.
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For fans: “Devils vs Blackhawks” is more than just another game — it’s a matchup of youth vs experience, rising stars vs proven systems.
6. Prediction & What to Watch
Given all the context, I lean toward the Devils walking away with a narrow victory. If the Blackhawks can harness Bedard’s magic, they could pull off an upset — but their head-to-head struggles are hard to ignore.
Watch for:
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How Bedard decides to impact the game — will he shoot, pass, dominate?
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Nemec’s ice time and how the Devils deploy him in both offence and defence.
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How veteran leaders on both sides (Foligno, others) affect the intensity, especially late in the game.
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Turnovers, special teams (power-plays and penalty kills) — they often swing games of this calibre.
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