Capitals vs. Devils prediction: Close contest projected after new data released for Thursday's NHL matchup [4/2/2026]

The New Jersey Devils and Washington Capitals will meet in the NHL at Prudential Center on Thursday, with puck drop at 7:30 PM ET.

Based on the latest simulations, Dimers' proven NHL model gives an equal chance for both both teams to win the Capitals-Devils matchup.

This article offers an expanded analysis of Thursday's Capitals vs. Devils matchup, including projected goal scorers, best bets and player prop picks.

Caps vs. Devils prediction: Who will win and cover?

Using innovative machine learning and data analysis, we have simulated the result of Thursday's NHL game between the Capitals and Devils, forming part of our NHL predictions coverage.

Our independent predictive model currently can't split the two teams, giving both the Capitals and Devils a 50% chance of winning the game.

According to our model, the Capitals (+1.5) have a 71% chance of covering the puck line, while the over/under total of 6.5 goals has a 56% chance of staying under.

Capitals vs. Devils odds

We have sourced the best NHL odds in America for this game, which are listed here:

Bet Type	Capitals	Devils
Puck Line	+1.5 (-258)	-1.5 (+210)
Moneyline	-105	-110
Total	o6.5 (+105)	u6.5 (-124)

All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.

Capitals vs. Devils picks and best bet

After matching our predictions against the best current odds, we can reveal our picks for each of the major markets. Plus, find our best bet for the game below:

Bet Type	Pick	Bet Now
Puck Line	Capitals +1.5	-258
Moneyline	Capitals	-105
Total	Under 6.5	-124

According to our NHL best bets, the top play to make on this game is Under 6.5 total goals.

These picks are based on our probabilities matched against the implied probabilities from the sportsbook odds.

Capitals vs. Devils player props

Who will score a goal in Capitals vs. Devils?

According to our model, Jack Hughes is most likely to score an anytime goal in Capitals vs. Devils.

Our projections give Hughes a 37.6% chance of scoring a goal at Prudential Center, while the star is a 7.8% chance of netting the first goal the game.

Anytime goal scorer predictions

Washington Capitals

Player	Anytime Goal Probability
Alex Ovechkin	34.4%
Tom Wilson	28.6%
Connor McMichael	24.7%
Dylan Strome	24.1%
Ryan Leonard	23.4%

New Jersey Devils

Player	Anytime Goal Probability
Jack Hughes	37.6%
Nico Hischier	32.7%
Timo Meier	30.8%
Jesper Bratt	26.6%
Dawson Mercer	20.2%

First goal scorer predictions

Washington Capitals

Player	First Goal Probability
Alex Ovechkin	7.3%
Tom Wilson	5.6%
Connor McMichael	5.1%
Dylan Strome	4.8%
Ryan Leonard	4.7%

New Jersey Devils

Player	First Goal Probability
Jack Hughes	7.8%
Nico Hischier	6.1%
Timo Meier	5.6%
Jesper Bratt	5.3%
Dawson Mercer	3.5%

Caps vs. Devils game-day updates and essential details

Thursday's matchup between the Devils and Capitals at Prudential Center is scheduled to start at 7:30 PM ET.

• Who: Washington Capitals vs. New Jersey Devils
• Date: Thursday, April 2, 2026
• Time: 7:30 PM ET/4:30PM PT
• Venue: Prudential Center

Conclusion

We predict a close game between the Capitals and Devils on Thursday, with each team having a 50% chance of winning.

AI and automation have enhanced this article to quickly deliver accurate Capitals vs. Devils insights, with human oversight ensuring high editorial quality. Our predictions are drawn from up-to-date data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice, head to our responsible gambling hub.

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