Columbus has shown inconsistency recently, with victories in overtime against both the Los Angeles Kings and Vegas Golden Knights, as well as losses to Dallas and Buffalo. The team’s performance heavily relies on goalie Tarasov’s strong performances and their ability to capitalize on power plays.
Strengths of the Teams: They have a strong power play and decent defense, but their main weakness lies in allowing an average of 3.38 goals per game.
Injuries and Suspensions: There are significant injuries, with key players such as Chinakhov and Werenski sidelined.
Utah has been struggling, suffering five straight losses, but managed to break their losing streak with a tough overtime win against Philadelphia. Players like Sergachev and Gunther have been key contributors, showing promise for the team.
Strengths of the Teams: The team’s attacking struggles are evident, with low shot totals (averaging just 27 shots per game), and they often fail to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Injuries and Suspensions: The injury list remains largely unchanged, with Bortuzzo, Durzi, and Kuli still out.
Considering both teams’ current form, Columbus appears to be the stronger side, with more consistency in their gameplay, especially on power plays and offense. Despite the injuries, they look more solid than Utah, which has struggled with offensive production. Our prediction: Columbus wins, likely by a narrow margin, and possibly in overtime, given the tendency of both teams to play tight matches.
Betting Recommendations: Columbus to win either in regulation or overtime. Consider betting on the total under 6.5 goals, as Utah’s low scoring and Columbus’s defensive challenges suggest a tighter, lower-scoring game.
Columbus has returned to their home arena, where they are fully capable of continuing to earn points consistently. Recently, the Blue Jackets have shown excellent form on their home ice, remaining unbeaten in front of their fans for the last five games. Despite these positive factors, bookmakers remain skeptical about the team's chances, offering a high odds on their victory, which presents a great opportunity. Utah's single home win is unlikely to be enough to bounce back from their extended slump, making a bet on the visitors rather risky. We suggest backing the home team for the win.
Bookmakers are offering odds of 3.06 for Columbus, 4.51 for a draw, and 2.07 for Lokomotiv. Total over 5.5 goals is offered for 1.83, total under for 2.06.
Our prediction – Columbus to win at odds of 2.31.
