The Nashville Predators visit the Columbus Blue Jackets in a crucial matchup with playoff implications. Nashville (58 points) looks to clinch their playoff spot while Columbus (43 points) aims to play spoiler.

The Predators enter with momentum, winning 4 of their last 6 games including a key victory over Dallas. They've found success with a defensive style, averaging 2.58 goals for and 2.75 against. Goaltender Juuse Saros (19 wins, .930 save percentage) and defenseman Roman Josi (25 assists) lead their strong defensive unit.

Columbus, despite sitting last in the Central Division, has kept games competitive despite offensive struggles (2.3 goals per game). Oliver Bjorkstrand leads the team with 15 goals and 24 assists, but scoring depth remains an issue. The Blue Jackets have managed just one win in the past three weeks.

Game Notes:

• Nashville is favored (-170 money line)
• Over/under set at 5.0 goals
• One goal could decide this tight-checking matchup
• Nashville can clinch playoff spot with win
• Columbus looking to play spoiler role

The Predators' defensive system matches up well against the Blue Jackets' limited offense, but Columbus' ability to keep games close gives them a chance at an upset if they can find timely scoring.

Related Articles

Previous Articles