Tag: Columbus Blue Jackets betting odds line spread pick predictions best bets

Columbus Blue Jackets at Carolina Hurricanes odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Columbus Blue Jackets at Carolina Hurricanes odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Columbus Blue Jackets and Carolina Hurricanes open their regular seasons Tuesday at PNC Arena in Raleigh, N.C. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Blue Jackets at Hurricanes, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Blue Jackets hit the road for Raleigh hoping to this season better than how they finished last season. Columbus lost 7 of its final 8 games inside the Metropolitan Division and it dropped 13 of its final 18 games against Eastern Conference sides.

The Hurricanes have posted big-time numbers at PNC Arena, winning 45 of the past 62 games on home ice. Carolina has won 6 of the past 7 meetings in this series, while the favorite is also 6-1 during the same span.

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Blue Jackets at Hurricanes odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:50 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline: Blue Jackets +200 (bet $100 to win $200) | Hurricanes -250 (bet $250 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Blue Jackets +1.5 (-120) | Hurricanes -1.5 (-105)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: +105 | U: -130)

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Blue Jackets at Hurricanes projected goalies

Elvis Merzlikins (27-23-7, 3.22 GAA, .907 SV%, 2 SO in 2021-22) vs. Frederik Andersen (35-14-3, 2.17 GAA, .922 SV%, 4 SO in 2021-22)

Merzlikins had a winning record at home, but he was just 11-14-2 with a 3.50 GAA and .903 SV% in 26 road starts. He ended up 1-1-0 with a 3.03 GAA and .913 SV% with 1 SO in 2 starts against Carolina in 2021-22.

Andersen is back healthy after missing time late in the regular season and all throughout the playoffs due to a lower-body injury. He was on fire at home last season, going 18-6-2 with a 1.95 GAA and .929 SV% and with 3 of his 4 shutouts coming on home ice.

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Blue Jackets at Hurricanes picks and predictions

Prediction

Hurricanes 4, Blue Jackets 2

Moneyline

The Hurricanes (-250) will cost you 2 1/2 times your potential return, and that’s just too risky on Opening Night, even if Carolina should be able to push past Columbus with relative ease.

PASS.

Puck line/Against the spread

The HURRICANES -1.5 (-105) are a much better play on the puck line at near even money. However, with 2 top-notch goaltenders, this might be a rather low-scoring game until Carolina is able to pull away in the 3rd period. Go lightly, and play the total a little heavier.

Over/Under

The UNDER 6.5 (-130) is the best play on the board here. When these teams get together, goals are usually at a premium.

The Under is 19-6-1 in the past 26 meetings in this series, and 15-5-1 in the past 21 battles at PNC Arena. With Andersen healthy again, and the team adding D Brent Burns to the defensive corps along with D Jaccob Slavin, the Carolina defense should be stout in this one.

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Tampa Bay Lightning at Columbus Blue Jackets odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Tampa Bay Lightning at Columbus Blue Jackets odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Tampa Bay Lightning (50-22-8) go north to take on the Columbus Blue Jackets (36-37-7) Thursday at Nationwide Arena. Puck drop is slated for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we look at the Lightning vs. Blue Jackets odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

These two conclude their home-and-home Thursday after Tampa disposed of Columbus 4-1 at Amalie Arena Tuesday. Lightning C Steven Stamkos lit the lamp twice for the second game in a row. He has 6 goals and 8 assists in the last 4 games to put him over 100 points for the first time in his career. He’ll be aggressive in this one as he sits at 39 goals on the season.

Columbus has really struggled offensively recently, and part of it is that RW Patrik Laine has been out since April 16. The Jackets have one win since, but they are 20-15-5 on home ice.

Lightning at Blue Jackets odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:35 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Lightning -300 (bet $300 to win $100) | Blue Jackets +230 (bet $100 to win $230)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Lightning -1.5 (-120) | Blue Jackets +1.5 (-105)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Lightning at Blue Jackets projected goalies

Brian Elliott (11-3-3, 2.33 GAA, .914 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Elvis Merzlikins (26-22-7, 3.25 GAA, .906 SV%, 2 SO)

The Bolts should go with the 37-year-old backup here because there’s no real reason to use Andrei Vasilevskiy. Elliott hasn’t faced Columbus this year, but he has been great in April with a 4-0-1 record, 2.18 GAA and .910 SV% with 1 SO.

Merzlikins has had one of his best months of the year with a 2.62 GAA and .923 SV% across 11 games. He stopped 28 of 32 in the loss Tuesday, which was his only game against Tampa this year. He’s two games removed from a 33-save win over the Edmonton Oilers.

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Lightning at Blue Jackets picks and predictions

Prediction

Blue Jackets 3, Lightning 2

Money line

Tampa is pretty much locked into its spot in the playoffs. They’ve won four in a row and six of seven. It’s certainly plausible they dial it down to come out healthy. This one is your choice to take Columbus on the money line or take the goal of insurance on the spread. LEAN BLUE JACKETS (+230).

Against the spread

The best bet on the board here is the BLUE JACKETS +1.5 (-105). The vig is on Tampa to run away with this one, but they travel to face the New York Islanders next. I’ll back the home team to get a little revenge.

Over/Under

The Under cashed Tuesday, thanks in part to Columbus only scoring once. The Under is 7-1 in the last eight Tampa has been favored on the road. The juice was on the Under earlier this morning, which means the public must be backing the Over, and we don’t follow the herd. Columbus isn’t likely to win a 4-3 game, and we like them in this spot. LEAN UNDER 6.5 (-110).

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Columbus Blue Jackets at Tampa Bay Lightning odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Columbus Blue Jackets at Tampa Bay Lightning odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Columbus Blue Jackets (36-36-7) buzz down to the 813 to face the Tampa Bay Lightning (49-22-8) Tuesday at Amalie Arena. Puck drop is slated for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we look at the Blue Jackets vs. Lightning odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

Columbus ended a four-game losing stkid with a 5-2 drubbing of the Edmonton Oilers Sunday. RW Jakub Voracek had three helpers in the game to bring his total to a team-leading 59 points on the season.

Tampa has won three in a row and is rolling on offense. The Lightning have scored 22 goals in their last three games. C Steven Stamkos has 4 goals and 6 assists during that three-game stretch and is up to 97 points on the year. RW Nikita Kucherov has goals in six straight games and 16 points along that span.

Blue Jackets at Lightning odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:02 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Blue Jackets +300 (bet $100 to win $300) | Lightning -400 (bet $400 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Flyers +1.5 (+120) | Blackhawks -1.5 (-150)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -120 | U: -105)

Blue Jackets at Lightning projected goalies

Elvis Merzlikins (26-21-7, 3.24 GAA, .907 SV%, 2 SO) vs. Andrei Vasilevskiy (37-18-5, 2.49 GAA, .917 SV%, 2 SO)

Merzlikins has had a solid April at 4-4-2 with a 2.48 GAA and a .927 SV%. He has stopped 58 of 61 shots across his last two games. The 28-year-old Latvian has not faced Tampa this year.

“Vasey” has been a little giving in April with four games of at least 4 goals allowed – including Sunday at the Florida Panthers. His 3.19 GAA is his worst for a month all season. He beat Columbus in January, stopping 20 of 22 shots.

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Blue Jackets at Lightning picks and predictions

Prediction

Lightning 5, Blue Jackets 3

Money line

There isn’t a lot to profit on in this matchup – especially when Tampa will cause you to risk an astounding four times your return. PASS.

Against the spread

I generally don’t like betting puck lines of -150 or more because goals are hard to score in the NHL.

Recent trends lean to this one, though. Tampa beat Columbus 7-2 in January and it’s won two of the last three contests against the Blue Jackets by 2 goals or more. There is some concern that they’ll take the foot off the gas with just three games left after scoring 22 goals in three games, however, we’re going to LEAN LIGHTNING -1.5 (-150) for a half-unit.

Over/Under

The Over has cashed in the last five games Tampa was an outright favorite, the last time it was a home favorite and its last six overall. Columbus has posted 4 goals in five of its last 10 games. So we’re going to take the OVER 6.5 (-120).

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Boston Bruins at Columbus Blue Jackets odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Monday’s Boston Bruins at Columbus Blue Jackets odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Boston Bruins (43-20-5) visit the Buckeye State to battle the Columbus Blue Jackets (32-32-5) Monday at Nationwide Arena. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we look at the Bruins vs. Blue Jackets odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

The Beantown Bullies have won eight of their last 10 games and just dismissed the Blue Jackets 5-2 on the front end of the home-and-home Saturday. Boston sits two points behind the Tampa Bay Lightning and Toronto Maple Leafs in the Atlanta Division as they look to avoid the first-round matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes they’re currently pegged for.

The Blue Jackets have fallen in the tank as they’ve lost six contests in a row. They are mathematically still in the hunt, but they’re down 15 points with 13 games to go.

Bruins at Blue Jackets odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:17 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Bruins -240 (bet $240 to win $100) | Blue Jackets +190 (bet $100 to win $190)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Bruins -1.5 (+105) | Blue Jackets +1.5 (-130)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -102 | U: -122)

Bruins at Blue Jackets projected goalies

Linus Ullmark (21-9-2, 2.65 GAA, .910 SV%) vs. Elvis Merzlikins (22-18-5, 3.41 GAA, .902 SV%, 2 SO)

Ullmark was great in March with a 4-1-1 record, 2.20 GAA and .915 SV%. The tandem of G Jeremy Swayman and Ullmark has really solidified the back end for the B’s. This is his first matchup against Columbus this season, and he is fresh with his last game coming March 31.

Merzlikins wasn’t terrible Saturday as he was pelted for 40 shots and allowed just 3 goals. Once the net was empty, the Bruins scored 2 more. He’s 0-1-1 with a 3.47 GAA and a .903 SV% across two games against the Bruins this season.

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Bruins at Blue Jackets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bruins 5, Blue Jackets 2

Money line

The Bruins are a complete team right now. C Patrice Bergeron has a goal and 6 helpers in four games since returning from injury. RW David Pastrnak had 10 goals and 8 assists in March.

Is it possible Columbus ends their losing streak here at home? Sure, but not likely, and we’re going to PASS on spending -240 on Boston.

Against the spread

Columbus has been profitable on the puck line at home as it’s 22-13 ATS, but there’s nothing in the data that tells us they can hang with the Bruins right now. RW Patrik Laine doesn’t have a goal in six games, and he didn’t even register a shot Saturday.

Take the even money and go with BRUINS -1.5 (+105).

Over/Under

Boston has been ablaze with four goals per game in its last 10 outings. Columbus, on the other hand, has just 14 goals in its last 6 games. The Over is 4-0 in the Bruins’ last four games and last four as favorites. The Over is 5-0-1 in the Blue Jackets’ last six games with a day of rest. Boston may need some empty-netters to push it across, but LEAN to the OVER 6.5 (-102).

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Columbus Blue Jackets at New York Islanders odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Thursday’s Columbus Blue Jackets at New York Islanders odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Columbus Blue Jackets (32-30-5) head to Long Island to face the New York Islanders (29-27-9) Thursday at UBS Arena. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we look at the Blue Jackets vs. Islanders odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

This is the second half of a home-and-home between the teams. The Islanders beat the Blue Jackets 4-3 Tuesday. That was the fourth straight loss and fifth in the last six games for Columbus. They’re just not getting it done on the offensive end with nine goals in those four games. It’s probably not coincidental, but RW Patrik Laine is on a four-game goal-scoring drought.

The Isles are in a soft spot in their schedule, and they’ve generally handled the weaker teams and lost to powerhouses over the last 10 (6-3-1). Goalie Semyon Varlamov was the difference Tuesday as he stopped 42 of 45 shots.

Blue Jackets at Islanders odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 3:46 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Blue Jackets +160 (bet $100 to win $160) | Islanders -200 (bet $200 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Blue Jackets +1.5 (-145) | Islanders -1.5 (+115)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: +100 | U: -125)

Blue Jackets at Islanders projected goalies

Elvis Merzlikins (22-16-5, 3.40 GAA, .902 SV%, 2 SO) vs. Semyon Varlamov (7-13-2, 2.88 GAA, .914 SV%, 1 SO)

Merzlikins may become subject to a name-changing meme for how leaky he has been this month. He has given up at least three goals in 10 of his 12 starts in March. He wasn’t particularly good Tuesday, letting four shots pass while  making 25 saves. But this is the same guy that shut out the Carolina Hurricanes and Winnipeg Jets this season.

As mentioned, Varlamov kept the Islanders in Tuesday’s game, stopping 42 of 45 shots. He has been a crash test dummy of sorts as he has seen at least 38 shots fired at him in five of his eight starts this month. Is this where his usage finally takes its toll?

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Blue Jackets at Islanders odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Blue Jackets 4, Islanders 3

Money line

The Islanders bent but didn’t break Tuesday. This may be the place the ice divots start to break open. It’s really hard to sweep a team in a home-and-home. This is the longest Laine has gone without a goal in more than two months. Look for him to light the lamp Thursday, and we’ll LEAN BLUE JACKETS (+160).

Against the spread

Even if Columbus can’t pull off the upset, it’s going to be in the game. The Blue Jackets are 40-27 on the puck line this season. Hit the BLUE JACKETS +1.5 (-145) for a full unit as their price isn’t too prohibitive to add some insurance on the money line.

Over/Under

Columbus’ goalie has struggled, and New York’s goalie has been under constant duress, which could break at any time. They hit the over Tuesday, and the Over is 5-1-1 in the last seven the Isles have been favored in at home. It’s a hunch, and the sportsbooks aren’t feeling it with plus-money incentive. But LEAN OVER 6.5 (+100).

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Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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New York Islanders at Columbus Blue Jackets odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Tuesday’s New York Islanders at Columbus Blue Jackets odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The New York Islanders (28-27-9) travel visit the Buckeye State to battle the Columbus Blue Jackets (32-29-5) Tuesday at Nationwide Arena. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we look at the Islanders vs. Blue Jackets odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

The Islanders limp into Columbus losers of 2 in a row, and they’ll be without starting G Ilya Sorokin due to an upper-body injury. The Isles had won 7 of 9 before suffering 6-3 and 4-1 losses to Boston Saturday and Tampa Bay Sunday, respectively.

The Blue Jackets have fallen on hard times as well, losers of 4 of the last 5. They’ve been pounded by a combined score of 23-13 in those 5 games. RW Jakub Voracek has maintained his play, though, with 2 goals and 3 assists in the stretch.

Islanders at Blue Jackets odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 3:46 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Islanders -150 (bet $150 to win $100) | Blue Jackets +122 (bet $100 to win $122)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Islanders -1.5 (+165) | Blue Jackets +1.5 (-220)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 5.5 (O: -150 | U: +120)

Islanders at Blue Jackets projected goalies

Semyon Varlamov (6-13-2, 2.87 GAA, .913 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Elvis Merzlikins (22-15-5, 3.39 GAA, .903 SV%, 2 SO)

Varlamov might be screaming “S.O.S.” after his last 2 outings. He coughed up 6 goals in the Saturday’s Boston loss and was forced into action in lieu of the injured Sorokin the next day and stopped 12 of 14 shots. Even with those 8 goals allowed, his GAA this month is just 3.28. Prior to those 2 defeats, he shut out the Ottawa Senators March 22.

Merzlikins has been used heavily this month with action in 11 games. The 27-year-old Latvian has faced 352 shots in March and posted a 4-1-4 record with a 3.32 GAA and a .901 SV%. He has quality wins against Vegas and Minnesota this month. Merzlikins was between the pipes for a 3-2 overtime win against the Isles back in October, stopping 34 of 36 shots he faced.

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Islanders at Blue Jackets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Blue Jackets 3, Islanders 2

Money line

Neither team is in the playoff picture, and they’ve both struggled of late. The home team has won 3 of the last 4 in this matchup, and the Islanders are 2-6 in the last 8 meetings in Columbus.

We’re going to side with the home team here, too, as the Blue Jackets are 18-13-3 at home and have the steadier tendy situation.

Take the BLUE JACKETS (+122) at plus money.

Against the spread

Columbus has been profitable on the puck line at home as it’s 21-13 ATS. If the Jackets are unable to pull out the victory, we’re still getting 1 goal of insurance here.

The Jackets, who are 4-6 in the last 10, have stayed within 1 goal in half of those losses. Take the chalky BLUE JACKETS +1.5 (-220).

Over/Under

There are some trends leaning to the Under here. The Under is 4-0 in the last four head-to-head meetings in Columbus and 9-1-1 in the last 11 meetings overall.

The Islanders have skated well in their past 10 outings, averaging 3.4 goals per game. Columbus has averaged 3.0 in its last 10.

We’re projecting 5 goals here, and it’ll be close. Lean UNDER 5.5 (+120).

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Toronto Maple Leafs at Columbus Blue Jackets odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Monday’s Toronto Maple Leafs at Columbus Blue Jackets odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Toronto Maple Leafs (35-16-4) visit the Columbus Blue Jackets (28-25-3) Monday at Nationwide Arena. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+/Hulu). Below, we look at the Maple Leafs vs. Blue Jackets odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

The Maple Leafs have dropped the past two games, both at home, losing to the Buffalo Sabres (5-1 Wednesday) and Vancouver Canucks (6-4 Saturday). The Jackets won 4-3 in overtime Feb. 22 the last time these teams met, which was also in Columbus.

The Blue Jackets were edged 5-4 in a shootout against the Boston Bruins Saturday for a second straight loss. The Jackets have won just once in their last five outings (1-2-2).

Maple Leafs at Blue Jackets odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:15 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Maple Leafs -230 (bet $230 to win $100) | Blue Jackets +180 (bet $100 to win $180)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Maple Leafs -1.5 (+110) | Blue Jackets +1.5 (-135)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -135 | U: +110)

Maple Leafs at Blue Jackets projected goalies

Petr Mrazek (9-5-0, 3.22 GAA, .890 SV%) vs. Elvis Merzlikins (19-14-3, 3.42 GAA, .903 SV%, 2 SO)

Mrazek had a three-game win streak snapped when he was knocked around for 5 goals on 31 shots last time out against the Sabres Wednesday. This would be Mrazek’s first appearance against the Jackets since Jan.16, 2020, when he was a member of the Carolina Hurricanes.

Merzlikins was in net for the last two games, a loss in a shootout to the Bruins Saturday and a 4-3 overtime setback to the Los Angeles Kings Friday. He allowed 5 goals on 30 shots in a loss in Toronto Dec. 7.

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Maple Leafs at Blue Jackets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Blue Jackets 4, Maple Leafs 3

Money line

The value play here is backing the BLUE JACKETS (+180) for a chance to nearly double up. Columbus has won two of the last three meetings with the Leafs at home while going 5-3 across the past eight in this series. The Maple Leafs just seem to struggle with CBJ for whatever reason.

Against the spread

If you’re not feeling the home side straight up, the BLUE JACKETS +1.5 (-135) plus the goal and a half is not out of line if you’d like a little insurance. While the Jackets are just 1-4 in their last five games overall, they’re 6-1 in their last seven on a single day of rest and 5-1 in the previous six against the Atlantic Division.

Over/Under

The lean is OVER 6.5 (-135) but play it very lightly mainly due to the series trends.

The Over is 6-2-2 in the last 10 meetings in Ohio’s capital city while going 3-1-1 in the past five meetings overall. The Over is also 15-5-1 in Toronto’s last 21 on the road while going 19-6-2 in the last 27 as a home ‘dog for Columbus.

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Boston Bruins at Columbus Blue Jackets odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Saturday’s Boston Bruins at Columbus Blue Jackets odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Boston Bruins (33-18-4) visit the Columbus Blue Jackets (28-25-2) Saturday at Nationwide Arena. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (NHL Network). Below, we look at the Bruins vs. Blue Jackets odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

Boston enters this tussle winners of six of its last seven games. The Bruins disposed of the Vegas Golden Knights 5-2 Thursday and have been getting contributions from reliable and unlikely sources alike. RW David Pastrnak has 7 goals in as many games, and C Craig Smith broke out with a hat trick Thursday.

Columbus nearly pulled off the upset Friday but was downed 4-3 in overtime by the Los Angeles Kings. RW Patrik Laine remains ablaze with 15 goals in the last 14 games.

Bruins at Blue Jackets odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:30 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Bruins -220 (bet $220 to win $100) | Blue Jackets +175 (bet $100 to win $175)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Bruins -1.5 (+120) | Blue Jackets +1.5 (-150)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 5.5 (O: -122 | U: -102)

Bruins at Blue Jackets projected goalies

Jeremy Swayman (14-7-3, 1.95 GAA, .930 SV%, 3 SO) vs. Jean-Francois Berube (3-1-0, 3.25 GAA, .924 SV%, 0 SO)

The second-year man Swayman holds the NHL lead with a 1.95 GAA. He is 21-10-3 with a 1.82 GAA and a .934 SV% over the first 35 games of his career. The B’s have a clear advantage when he’s between the pipes. He played Monday and Thursday, which should have him fresh enough to lace them up for this one.

Berube has been a crash test dummy in his first four starts this season seeing an average of 42.5 shots per night. He has allowed at least 3 goals in each, but he has really stood his ground stopping 92.4% of them. He has been off for a week and enters this one rested for another barrage.

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Bruins at Blue Jackets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bruins 4, Blue Jackets 1

Money line

The BRUINS (-220) are a good play even though they’re slightly above my limit for money line favorites.

The Blue Jackets lost a heartbreaker in overtime Friday, and the Bruins are on a tear. Boston has won six of seven games and has averaged 4.1 goals per game across that span. The B’s are also 5-1 in their last six on the road. With advantages across the board, including in rest, this one shouldn’t be close.

Against the spread

The BRUINS -1.5 (+120) aren’t a good puck line team at 22-33 on the year, but they are 16-12 against the puck line on the road. The Blue Jackets will have tired legs in their fourth game this week and on back-to-back nights. Back Boston here for a half-unit.

Over/Under

The UNDER 5.5 (-102) is the preferred route here, but it may get juiced up the closer we get to puck drop. The Under is 7-1 in the last eight meetings between these two and 4-0 in the last four in Columbus. Boston should cover their end, but the wary Blue Jackets may not. Back the Under or avoid.

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Los Angeles Kings at Columbus Blue Jackets odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Friday’s Los Angeles Kings at Columbus Blue Jackets odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Los Angeles Kings (29-19-7) visit the Columbus Blue Jackets (28-25-1) Friday at Nationwide Arena. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we look at the Kings vs. Blue Jackets odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

This is a battle of two teams fighting for a playoff spot in their respective conferences. The Kings have dropped their last two games, but they previously won seven of eight. The Blue Jackets have also won seven of 10, and this will be a tough one against an evenly matched opponent on home ice.

Columbus RW Patrik Laine has scored 14 goals in the last 13 games. He’ll have to lead the charge Friday night for the underdog Blue Jackets.

Kings at Blue Jackets odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 11:16 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Kings -145 (bet $145 to win $100) | Blue Jackets +120 (bet $100 to win $120)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Kings -1.5 (+160) | Blue Jackets +1.5 (-210)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -130 | U: +105)

Kings at Blue Jackets projected goalies

Cal Petersen (14-8-1, 2.74 GAA, .899 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Elvis Merzlikins (19-14-1, 3.40 GAA, .904 SV%, 2 SO)

The 27-year-old Petersen has been used a lot of late, and he has answered the bell with a 2.01 GAA in January and a 2.71 GAA in February. He will give up some goals, though, as he has spotted opponents at least two goals in 10 straight games.

Speaking of spotting goals, Merzlikins has allowed three goals or more in eight of nine games. He has come around, though, with a 3.50 GAA in February following a 4.64 GAA in January.

Exclusive USA TODAY Network offer: Deposit $10 or more, get $200 in instant bet credits at Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Place your legal, online sports bets at Tipico. Let’s make this interesting. Bet now!

Kings at Blue Jackets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Blue Jackets 4, Kings 3

Money line

The home team is 4-1 in the last five meetings between these two teams. So, we’re going to give a slight lean to BLUE JACKETS (+120) on friendly ice. Laine and Co., are ninth in the NHL with 3.3 goals per game, and they’ll need to score four or five to win this one.

Against the spread

We’re going to PASS on the spread here. The Kings are favored, and the Blue Jackets +1.5 (-210) offers no value.

Over/Under

The OVER 6.5 (-130) is a solid bet here with two goalies prone to looking behind them. The Over is 6-0-2 in the last eight Blue Jackets games against the Western Conference and 7-2-2 in their last 11 as underdogs.

Conversely, the Over is 5-0 in the Kings’ last five against the Eastern Conference and 5-0 against teams with a winning record.

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New Jersey Devils at Columbus Blue Jackets odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Tuesday’s New Jersey Devils at Columbus Blue Jackets odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The New Jersey Devils (19-29-5) travel to meet the Columbus Blue Jackets (27-25-1) Tuesday at Nationwide Arena. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we look at the Devils vs. Blue Jackets odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

The Devils opened the floodgates on the Vancouver Canucks Monday with a 7-2 win. It was their 12th consecutive win against them. LW Jesper Bratt has led the offensive surge with 5 goals in his last three games.

Columbus has dropped two straight after snapping a four-game win streak. They had a lead on the Pittsburgh Penguins but gave up two third-period goals to drop the tilt 3-2 Sunday. RW Patrik Laine was been one of the hottest players in hockey in February with 9 goals and 6 assists in 10 games.

Devils at Blue Jackets odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:48 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Devils +115 (bet $100 to win $115) | Blue Jackets -140 (bet $140 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Devils +1.5 (-220) | Blue Jackets -1.5 (+165)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -120 | U: -105)

Devils at Blue Jackets projected goalies

Jon Gillies (3-9-1, 3.70 GAA, .887 SV%) vs. Elvis Merzlikins (18-14-1, 3.41 GAA, .904 SV%, 2 SO)

Gillies was shelled in his last two games allowing 6 goals in each game. He allowed 6 goals in three different games across six February starts as he went 2-4-0 with a 4.76 GAA. The sands in the hourglass may be waning on his roster spot.

Merzlikins has been taken to the woodshed the last three games allowing 13 goals. He went 4-2-0 with a 3.50 GAA and an .897 SV% across six February starts. He has clearly benefitted from Laine’s hot streak because his numbers aren’t great outside of the record.

Exclusive USA TODAY Network offer: Deposit $10 or more, get $200 in instant bet credits at Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Place your legal, online sports bets at Tipico. Let’s make this interesting. Bet now!

Devils at Blue Jackets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Devils 5, Blue Jackets 3

Money line

The DEVILS (+115) are ripe for the upset here.

New Jersey has scored 37 goals in their last seven games and Columbus is 14-11-1 at home this season, which doesn’t give them much of a home-ice advantage. Jersey is playing on consecutive days, but they’re young and on fire.

Against the spread

The Devils +1.5 (-220) doesn’t offer enough of a return.

If you’re willing to risk a half-unit here, the ALTERNATE SPREAD DEVILS -1.5 (+250) has a juicy payout. With the way New Jersey is scoring, this has a real shot for a nice reward. Otherwise, stick with the money line.

Over/Under

The OVER 6.5 (-120) could hit just on New Jersey’s side alone as they have posted 7 goals three times during the last seven games. The Over is 5-1 in the Devils’ last six games and 11-3 in the Devils’ last 14 games on no rest. With the way both goalies have struggled, this is the best bet on the board.

Watch: ESPN+ has become a must-have for hockey fans. Get access to more than 1,000 out-of-market NHL games, 75 weekly national games, and more all season. Sign up for ESPN+ now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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