New Jersey Devils vs Pittsburgh Penguins Picks and Predictions for Thursday February 26 2026

By: Kim Smith Published 02/26/2026, 01:25 AM ET

The New Jersey Devils travel to PPG Paints Arena to take on the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday, February 26, 2026. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET, and the game will be broadcast on ESPN+. This Metropolitan Division matchup features two teams heading in opposite directions, with Pittsburgh firmly in the playoff mix and New Jersey fighting to regain consistency. At the time of this writing, the odds were not released. Be sure to check out our free NHL picks for the full slate of action.

Devils Trying to Stop the Slide

New Jersey enters this contest at 28-27-2 overall and 15-15-0 on the road. The Devils have struggled recently, losing to the Islanders 3-1, Columbus 3-0, Ottawa 4-1, and Winnipeg 4-3, with their only recent win coming against Nashville 3-2 in overtime. That 1-4 stretch has highlighted offensive inconsistencies and defensive lapses at key moments.

On the season, the Devils are averaging 2.51 goals per game while allowing 3.07 goals against per contest. They generate 29.3 shots per game and allow 27.7, showing that they can create chances but have not consistently converted them. Their power play has produced 30 goals at a 20.8% success rate, and the penalty kill stands at 79.0%. New Jersey has also allowed zero short-handed goals, reflecting solid puck management on the man advantage.

The biggest issue for New Jersey lately has been finishing. Despite generating nearly 30 shots per game, they have scored one goal or fewer in three of their last five contests. If they cannot capitalize on early opportunities, they risk falling behind quickly against a potent Pittsburgh offense.

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Penguins Thriving on Special Teams and Balance

Pittsburgh comes into this matchup at 29-15-12 overall and 13-8-7 at home. The Penguins recently won over Buffalo 5-2, the Rangers 6-5, and Chicago 6-2, while losing to the Islanders 5-4 in overtime and Ottawa 3-2. With three wins in their last five games, Pittsburgh has shown resilience and offensive explosiveness.

The Penguins are averaging 3.41 goals per game while allowing 2.89 goals against per contest. They take 29.1 shots per game and surrender 27.3, indicating a balanced approach. Their power play has been a major weapon with 38 goals and a 25.9% success rate, and their penalty kill stands at an impressive 84.0%. Like New Jersey, Pittsburgh has not allowed a short-handed goal this season.

What stands out most about the Penguins is their efficiency on special teams. A power play clicking at nearly 26% combined with a strong penalty kill gives them a significant edge in tight games. When Pittsburgh gets opportunities with the man advantage, they tend to capitalize.

New Jersey Devils vs Pittsburgh Penguins Pick

Devils vs Penguins Pick

Pick: Pittsburgh Penguins Moneyline

Given Pittsburgh’s stronger overall record, superior special teams, and recent offensive output, the Penguins have the edge in this matchup. New Jersey’s recent struggles scoring goals make it difficult to trust them against a team averaging over three goals per game.

Devils vs Penguins Total Pick

Pick: Over 6 Goals

I’m leaning toward the over here. Pittsburgh has scored five or more goals in three of its last five games, and New Jersey, despite recent struggles, still generates nearly 30 shots per game. If the Devils find some finishing touch, this game could open up quickly, especially with Pittsburgh’s power play playing such a pivotal role.

Final Score Prediction: Penguins 4, Devils 2

This prediction was written before the completion of game play on Wednesday.