Published Oct 8, 3:47am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Oct 8, 3:47am ET
Credit: AI Generated
Updated Oct 8, 3:54am ET
Two sides with genuine playoff aspirations will collide on the opening night of NHL action in 2025-26 at the PNC Arena.
The Carolina Hurricanes ended the previous campaign in fourth in the Eastern Conference, while the New Jersey Devils will have their sights set on a second straight finish in a playoff spot this term. You can find the odds and our picks for the clash here.
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| Carolina Hurricanes | -155 |
| New Jersey Devils | +136 |
A summer of change has been completed off the ice for the Carolina Hurricanes, but hopes remain high that the team can be competitive in the NHL this season.
The Hurricanes saw their playoff dreams end in the Eastern Conference Finals in 2024-25. However, positives could have been taken from the fact that they ended a losing streak in the finals that dated back to 2006.
Quality has been added to the roster during the off-season, with Cayden Primeau and K'Andre Miller both brought in.
The New Jersey Devils enjoyed a productive first season under Sheldon Keefe last term, as they finished seventh in the Eastern Conference.
A playoff spot was assured, marking a return to form after missing out on the postseason in 2023-24. However, their playoff hopes were dashed in the opening round against the Hurricanes.
Despite that, the Devils ended the season with a positive record in home and road games. Building on that progression will now be the big question for Keefe and his side in 2025-26.
This is an interesting clash in Carolina on Friday, and cases can be made for both teams.
However, the Devils were fluent and efficient on the road throughout last season, and they will be aiming for immediate revenge against the Hurricanes this week. Therefore, a chance could be taken on the visitors when making Devils vs. Hurricanes NHL picks.
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Pick
New Jersey Devils (+136)
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