Columbus Blue Jackets vs Pittsburgh Penguins Pick – 3/21/2025

The Columbus Blue Jackets are set to face off against the Pittsburgh Penguins tonight at 7:00 PM at PPG Paints Arena. This Metropolitan Division encounter carries significant implications, with both teams striving to enhance their standings as the season progresses.

Columbus Blue Jackets vs Pittsburgh Penguins Game Preview

The Blue Jackets have encountered difficulties recently, enduring a five-game losing streak. Their most recent outing resulted in a 1-0 overtime loss to the Florida Panthers, where they managed 26 shots on goal, with goaltender Elvis Merzlikins stopping 27 shots, achieving a .964 save percentage. Over their last ten games, Columbus has secured three wins, suffered six losses, and recorded one overtime loss, averaging 2.3 goals per game from 26.8 shots on goal. Their power play efficiency stands at 3.6%, and they've conceded an average of 3.3 goals per game from 31.4 shots, with a penalty-killing efficiency of 77.8%.

On the other hand, the Penguins have shown a more balanced performance, with five wins, four losses, and one overtime loss in their last ten games. They average 3.3 goals per game from 25.3 shots on goal, boasting a 20.0% power play efficiency. Defensively, they've allowed an average of 3.4 goals per game from 31.5 shots, with a penalty-killing efficiency of 64.0%. In their recent 4-2 loss to the New York Islanders, Sidney Crosby and Joona Koppanen each contributed a goal.

Historically, the Penguins have dominated this matchup, holding a 46-17-4 record against the Blue Jackets. However, Columbus has claimed victory in the two most recent encounters this season, including a 4-3 shootout win on January 7, 2025, at PPG Paints Arena.

Betting Insights

Current betting odds favor the Penguins, with a Moneyline of 1.74, suggesting a 57% implied probability of a Pittsburgh win. The Blue Jackets are listed at 2.15. The puck line is set at 1.5, and the total goals line is 6.5, with the over at 2.00 and the under at 1.83.

Key betting statistics include:

• The Penguins have secured victories in four of their last five games.
• The Blue Jackets have suffered defeats in their last five games.
• In their last ten matchups, the Blue Jackets have lost seven games.
• The Penguins have won six of their last ten games against the Blue Jackets.

Player prop bets highlight Sidney Crosby as a favorite to score, with odds of 9.50 for the first goal and 2.30 for an anytime goal. Rickard Rakell follows closely with odds of 9.50 for the first goal and 2.35 for an anytime goal.

Columbus Blue Jackets vs Pittsburgh Penguins Prediction

Considering the current form and statistical analysis, the Penguins appear to have the upper hand in this matchup. Their recent performance, coupled with home-ice advantage and a more consistent offensive output, positions them favorably. While the Blue Jackets have demonstrated resilience in previous encounters, their recent struggles, particularly in goal-scoring and special teams performance, present challenges.

Given these factors, the prediction leans towards a Penguins victory. Bettors might consider the Penguins on the 3-Way Moneyline at 2.08, reflecting confidence in a regulation-time win. Additionally, with both teams exhibiting tendencies for higher-scoring games, the over on 6.5 total goals at 2.00 could be a viable option.

As always, it's essential for bettors to conduct thorough research and consider all variables before placing wagers. The dynamic nature of hockey ensures that outcomes can be unpredictable, adding to the excitement and challenge of sports betting.