Columbus Blue Jackets vs
Pittsburgh PenguinsPredictions & Preview

Pittsburgh Penguins Look to Extend Dominance Over Columbus Blue Jackets in Matchup at PPG Paints Arena

The Columbus Blue Jackets will be traveling to PPG Paints Arena to face the Pittsburgh Penguins, with the Penguins holding a record of 31-30-10 and the Blue Jackets at 23-37-12. The Penguins have won both previous matchups this season. The game is scheduled to start at 7 PM EST, with Pittsburgh opening as the betting favorite at -229 and the line remaining unchanged.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Blue Jackets +191 | Penguins -229
• Spread: Blue Jackets +1.5 (-122) | Penguins -1.5 (+105)
• Total: Over/Under 6.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Pittsburgh will win straight-up is 70%.

Columbus vs Pittsburgh Stats

Columbus Blue Jackets

In their recent game against the Arizona Coyotes, the Columbus Blue Jackets were the underdogs and ultimately lost 6-2. Boone Jenner and Zach Werenski both contributed a goal and an assist, while Johnny Gaudreau had two assists. Goalie Elvis Merzlikins faced 35 shots and allowed six goals. The team's offense has been struggling, scoring two or fewer goals in seven of their last nine games. They currently rank 25th in goals per game and 19th in shots per game. Defensively, the Blue Jackets rank last in goals against per game and shots against per game. Merzlikins has a 12-17-8 record with a 3.47 GAA and .897 SV%, while Daniil Tarasov has a 7-10-3 record with a 3.24 GAA and .904 SV%. Zach Werenski leads the team with 46 points. With a power ranking of 30, Columbus is 26th in offense, 31st in defense, and has a record of 23-37-12 this season. It is unlikely that they will make the playoffs, currently sitting last in the Metropolitan Division.

Pittsburgh Penguins Analysis

The Pittsburgh Penguins, despite a recent victory over the Carolina Hurricanes, have been struggling offensively, scoring two or fewer goals in five of their last 10 games. Sidney Crosby leads the team with 76 points and 35 goals, but the overall offense ranks 24th in goals per game. The defense has been below average, although goaltending has been strong, with Tristan Jarry and Alex Nedeljkovic posting respectable stats. The team is currently second last in the Metropolitan Division, having traded away Jake Guentzel and looking to rebuild. With a power ranking of 28 and a record of 31-30-10, the Penguins are not projected to make the playoffs this year. In their recent matchups with Columbus, Pittsburgh has struggled, going 2-0-1 against the Blue Jackets.

Pittsburgh Penguins Dominate Columbus Blue Jackets in Recent Matchups

The Pittsburgh Penguins have demonstrated consistent success against the Columbus Blue Jackets in recent matchups, boasting a 9-0-1 record in their last ten games. Pittsburgh's goaltending has been a key factor in their performance, with a ranking of 14th in goals against per game. In contrast, Columbus has struggled defensively this season, ranking 31st in both goals against per game and shots against per game. The Blue Jackets have also faced challenges offensively, scoring two or fewer goals in seven of their last nine games. It is unlikely that either team will secure a playoff spot. Considering these factors, it is recommended to bet on the Pittsburgh Penguins to win by two or more goals, with a solid choice being the puck line (-1.5).

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