Colorado Avalanche vs Columbus Blue Jackets Pick – 4/3/2025

The Colorado Avalanche are set to face the Columbus Blue Jackets on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 7:30 PM Eastern Time at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio. This non-conference game features two teams with contrasting recent performances and playoff aspirations.

Colorado Avalanche vs. Columbus Blue Jackets Game Preview

The Avalanche enter the game with a 46-26-4 record, placing them third in the Central Division. They are looking to build on a shootout win over the Chicago Blackhawks on Wednesday, which they used to rebound after a 3-2 shootout loss to the Calgary Flames earlier this week.

Offensively, the Avalanche have been strong, averaging 3.32 goals per game. MacKinnon, Martin Necas, and Artturi Lehkonen have combined for 67 goals and 111 assists, leading the top two lines. Defenseman Cale Makar has also been a significant contributor from the blue line, adding 28 goals and 57 assists.

Defensively, Colorado has been solid, allowing 2.77 goals per game. Makar and Devon Toews have combined for 12.1 defensive point shares, providing stability on the back end. Goaltender MacKenzie Blackwood has posted a .919 save percentage and a 2.14 goals-against average over 51 games.

The Blue Jackets, with a 34-30-9 record, are fourth in the Metropolitan Division and are aiming to secure a playoff spot. They have won three of their last four games, including an 8-4 victory over the Nashville Predators earlier this week. In that game, Kirill Marchenko recorded a hat trick and an assist, while Sean Monahan and Adam Fantilli each scored two goals. Goalie Elvis Merzlikins made 24 saves on 28 shots.

Columbus's offense has been potent, averaging 3.23 goals per game. Marchenko and Kent Johnson have combined for 53 goals and 66 assists, leading the top line. Monahan, Fantilli, and Dmitri Voronkov have added 60 goals and 77 assists, providing depth scoring. Defenseman Zach Werenski has contributed 20 goals and 54 assists from the point.

Defensively, the Blue Jackets have struggled, allowing 3.36 goals per game. Werenski and Dante Fabbro have combined for 7.0 defensive point shares, but the team has had difficulty limiting opponents' scoring opportunities. Merzlikins has a .894 save percentage and a 3.11 goals-against average over 240 games.

Betting Insights

As of April 2, 2025, the betting odds for this game are as follows:

• Moneyline: Avalanche -196, Blue Jackets +162
• Total Goals (Over/Under): 6

The Avalanche have been favored in this matchup, reflecting their superior record and overall performance this season. However, the Blue Jackets' recent offensive surge and home-ice advantage could make them a compelling underdog pick.

Colorado Avalanche vs. Columbus Blue Jackets Prediction

Considering the current form and statistics of both teams, this game is expected to be competitive. The Avalanche's strong offense, led by MacKinnon and Makar, will test the Blue Jackets' vulnerable defense. Conversely, Columbus's recent offensive outburst, highlighted by Marchenko's hat trick, suggests they can capitalize on scoring opportunities.

Given the Avalanche's defensive stability and the Blue Jackets' defensive struggles, Colorado holds a slight edge. However, Columbus's home performance and recent momentum cannot be overlooked. Bettors might consider the following:

• Moneyline: Avalanche (-196) – Favoring Colorado's overall consistency and defensive prowess.
• Total Goals: Over 6 – Both teams have demonstrated offensive capabilities, suggesting a higher-scoring game.

In conclusion, while the Avalanche are favored, the Blue Jackets' recent form and home advantage make them a viable underdog. Bettors should weigh these factors carefully when making their decisions.

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