Chicago Blackhawks vs
Columbus Blue JacketsPredictions & Preview

Blackhawks vs. Blue Jackets: Chicago Faces Tough Challenge in Inter-Conference Matchup

The Chicago Blackhawks are set to face off against the Columbus Blue Jackets in an inter-conference matchup this Saturday evening. The Blackhawks are coming off a loss to the Blues, while the Blue Jackets suffered a home defeat at the hands of the Rangers. Columbus holds the advantage in head-to-head matchups this season with a 6-3 victory. The Blue Jackets are the betting favorite for this game, opening at -185 with the current line at Columbus -172. Stay tuned for the Blackhawks vs. Blue Jackets prediction.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Blackhawks +150 | Blue Jackets -172
• Spread: Blackhawks +1.5 (-165) | Blue Jackets -1.5 (+140)
• Total: Over/Under 6.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Columbus will win straight-up is 63%.

Chicago vs Columbus Stats

Chicago Blackhawks

The Chicago Blackhawks are currently facing a lack of confidence and struggling through a rebuilding season. Despite some individual strong performances, the team has not been able to vastly improve from last season, dropping four of their past five games. Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar are showing promise, while Seth Jones may be traded soon. The team is hampered by weak goaltending and is struggling in both offensive and defensive categories, ranking 29th in both. Overall, the Blackhawks have a power ranking of 32 and a record of 17-31-7 this season.

Columbus Blue Jackets Analysis

The Columbus Blue Jackets are eager to bounce back after a recent four-game losing streak, impacting their standings in the playoff race. Despite the setbacks, they are just one point out of a playoff spot and have exceeded expectations this season. Key players such as Zach Werenski, Kirill Marchenko, Kent Johnson, and Ivan Provorov have been performing well offensively. Goalie Elvis Merzlikins continues to see most of the action in net, although he has had some inconsistency. The team is averaging 3.2 goals per game, ranking them 10th in the league, but are giving up 3.3 goals per game, placing them 26th in defense. The Blue Jackets hold a power ranking of 7 and are strong offensively, ranking #6 in the league. Their upcoming matchup against Chicago will be a tough challenge as Chicago has won their last 3 matchups against Columbus.

Chicago Blackhawks Face Uphill Battle Against Columbus Blue Jackets in Crucial Matchup

The Chicago Blackhawks are currently on a challenging run, having lost four of their last five games. Their record of only six road wins this season highlights some difficulties they have faced while playing away from home. On the other hand, the Columbus Blue Jackets have been battling injuries but are just one point away from a playoff position. This game is crucial for them to secure a win against a seemingly weaker opponent. The Blackhawks have been struggling defensively, conceding 20 goals in their last five games, which could play to the advantage of the Columbus team, who rank 10th in the NHL for goals scored. Additionally, Chicago's offensive capabilities appear limited, with a reliance on Bedard and a last-place ranking in shots on goal per game. Considering these factors, utilizing the puck line may be a strategic choice for added value in this matchup.

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