Columbus Blue Jackets vs
Montreal CanadiensPredictions & Preview

Montreal Canadiens Face Columbus Blue Jackets in Eastern Conference Match-Up, Favored as Underdogs

On Saturday, the Columbus Blue Jackets (6-8-2) will face off against the Montreal Canadiens (5-10-2) in an Eastern Conference match-up. Both teams have had slow starts to the year, and we will review their recent performances before providing predictions for the game. The Montreal Canadiens are currently favored to win, opening at -141 but the current line is Montreal -115. Puck drop is set for 7:00 ET at the Bell Centre in Montreal, QC.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Blue Jackets +101 | Canadiens -115
• Spread: Blue Jackets +1.5 (-230) | Canadiens -1.5 (+194)
• Total: Over/Under 6.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Montreal will win straight-up is 53%.

Columbus vs Montreal Stats

Columbus Blue Jackets

The Columbus Blue Jackets have had a modest start to the season with a record of 6-8-2. They recently broke a six-game losing streak with a convincing 6-2 win over the Penguins, showcasing their offensive depth with goals from six different players. Goalie Elvis Merzlikins played a strong game, making 21 saves. The team is performing decently on the power play and penalty kill, ranking 19th and 13th in the league, respectively. Despite low expectations, the Blue Jackets are currently ranked 16th in offense and 28th in defense, with a power ranking of 26. At +30000 odds to win the Stanley Cup, they are considered a long shot in the league.

Montreal Canadiens Analysis

Coach Martin St. Louis is facing challenges in turning the Montreal Canadiens into a competitive team this season. With a disappointing record, they are currently last in the Atlantic Division and struggling defensively with a league-worst performance. Despite a recent win against Buffalo, Montreal's offense and defense rankings are concerning, and they are facing difficulties in recent matchups. The team's overall power ranking is 28, with specific rankings of 25 for offense and 32 for defense.

Canadiens Face Unusual Odds as Underdogs Against Blue Jackets

The Canadiens are currently favored (-146) to win against the Blue Jackets, which is an unusual situation given their recent performance and defensive struggles. Despite hosting the Blue Jackets on the second night of a back-to-back game, the Canadiens have a record of 1-6-1 in their last eight games. As a result, I am hesitant to bet on them at these odds. Conversely, the Blue Jackets have shown potential this season, notably with a decisive 6-2 victory over the Penguins. Considering the Blue Jackets have a stronger offense (3.1 GPG vs. 2.7) and a slightly better defense (3.40 GAA vs 3.76), I am inclined to support them in this match with attractive odds of +130. Therefore, I recommend taking a chance on the Blue Jackets in this game.

Sources: [ 1 ] [ 2 ] [ 3 ]