Minnesota Wild Favored to Win Against Columbus Blue Jackets in Nonconference NHL Matchup
The Minnesota Wild and Columbus Blue Jackets are set to face off in an enticing nonconference NHL matchup at Nationwide Arena on Saturday night. The Wild, currently fourth in
Game outlook
The Minnesota Wild and Columbus Blue Jackets are set to face off in an enticing nonconference NHL matchup at Nationwide Arena on Saturday night. The Wild, currently fourth in the Central Division with a record of 2-2, are coming off a strong road win against the St. Louis Blues. The Blue Jackets, in fifth place in the Metropolitan Division with a record of 2-2, are fresh off a home victory over the Buffalo Sabres. Minnesota won their last meeting against Columbus, and is the betting favorite with odds opened at -177. The current line has Minnesota at -178.
Betting Odds
Moneyline: Wild -178 | Blue Jackets +155
Spread: Wild -1.5 (+140) | Blue Jackets +1.5 (-160)
Total: Over/Under 6.5 (-110)
Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Minnesota will win straight-up is 64%.
Minnesota Wild
The Minnesota Wild have had a strong start to the season, ranking 21st in the NHL with 12 goals scored. Left winger Kirill Kaprizov has been a standout player, leading the offense with six points. The team has been doing well on the power play, scoring on 30.77 percent of their opportunities. Goalie Filip Gustavsson has been solid with a 2-0-1 record, 1.66 goals against average, and .948 save percentage. The defense has also been strong, allowing only 10 goals so far this season. However, the team has struggled on the penalty kill, only successful in 6 out of 9 attempts. The Injury Report includes several players who are questionable or out due to various injuries. In the power rankings, Minnesota is currently ranked 20th in offense, 9th in defense, and have a record of 2-2.