New Jersey Devils at Washington Capitals 
(-190, 5.5)
The Devils never had this problem when Martin Brodeur was healthy. The all-world goalie is out indefinitely and his replacement is struggling. Kevin Weekes was pulled in the second period of Wednesday’s loss after the Rangers lit the lamp four times.
Coach Ron Sutter is holding his cards close to his chest after Thursday’s practice but Weeks informed press members Scott Clemmensen would be playing Saturday against the Caps.
“Clemmer is playing tomorrow as far as I know,” Weekes told the Bergen Record.
Putting the puck in the net has been the Devils main problem. The club has just four goals in its last three games. Goals won’t come easy as long as left winger Zach Parise is bothered by a sore left heel.
The Devils’ leading scorer (11 goals and six assists) didn’t practice on Thursday after he was hit in the foot by a puck during Wednesday’s game. He’s still expected to suit up on Saturday.
The Caps have yet to lose on home ice in regulation this season. Expect the trend to continue tonight.
Pick: Capitals
Columbus Blue Jackets at Buffalo Sabres (-170, 5.5)
Ken Hitchcock’s club is getting a couple key contributors back in the lineup this weekend. Defenseman Rostislav Klesla missed four games (wrist) before returning Wednesday night against the Coyotes.
No. 1 netminder Pascal Leclaire was also activated from the injured reserve and is expected to start in one of the Jackets next two games.
The Sabres have hit a rut since their impressive 6-0-1 start to the campaign. Buffalo has lost five of their last eight.
Pick: Blue Jackets