Columbus Blue Jackets vs Washington Capitals Prediction – 4/13/2025

The Columbus Blue Jackets and Washington Capitals are set to face off in a pivotal Metropolitan Division showdown on Sunday, April 13, 2025, at Capital One Arena. With both teams vying for playoff positioning, this contest carries significant implications. The Blue Jackets, riding a three-game winning streak, aim to maintain their momentum, while the Capitals look to rebound from a lopsided defeat in their previous encounter.

Columbus Blue Jackets vs Washington Capitals Game Preview

In their most recent matchup on April 12, the Blue Jackets delivered a commanding 7-0 victory over the Capitals. Columbus showcased a balanced offensive attack, with goals from Adam Fantilli (2), Kent Johnson, Sean Monahan, Cole Sillinger, James van Riemsdyk, and Zach Werenski. Goaltender Jet Greaves recorded a 22-save shutout, highlighting the team's defensive prowess.

Columbus enters this game with a 37-33-9 record, including a 12-23-4 mark on the road. The Blue Jackets average 3.22 goals per game while allowing 3.35 goals against. Their power play operates at a 19.4% success rate, and the penalty kill stands at 76.3%.

Key contributors for the Blue Jackets include defenseman Zach Werenski, who leads the team with 77 points (21 goals, 56 assists), and forward Kent Johnson, boasting 22 goals and 32 assists. Werenski averages 3.6 shots per game with a 7.3% shooting percentage, while Johnson maintains a 19.0% shooting percentage on 116 shots.

On the other side, the Capitals hold a 50-20-9 record, with a strong 26-8-6 performance at home. They average 3.54 goals per game and allow 2.77 goals against. Washington's power play is effective at 23.5%, and their penalty kill operates at 81.7%.

Washington's offensive leaders include Alex Ovechkin, with 42 goals, and Dylan Strome, contributing 77 points (26 goals, 51 assists). However, Ovechkin is listed as out for this game, which could impact the Capitals' scoring capabilities.

In goal, the Capitals rely on Charlie Lindgren, who has a 19-13-3 record with a 2.74 goals-against average and a .896 save percentage. The Blue Jackets may turn to Jet Greaves again, given his recent shutout performance and Elvis Merzlikins' day-to-day status.

Betting Insights

• Moneyline: Capitals -170, Blue Jackets +145
• Over/Under: 6.5 goals
• Puck Line: Capitals -1.5 (+140), Blue Jackets +1.5 (-165)

Recent trends indicate that the Capitals have won each of their last seven night games at Capital One Arena. Conversely, the Blue Jackets have struggled on the second leg of back-to-back games, losing 15 of their last 16 in such situations. Additionally, the home team has covered the puck line in each of the Capitals' last six games.

Columbus Blue Jackets vs Washington Capitals Prediction

While the Blue Jackets' recent 7-0 victory over the Capitals was impressive, it's essential to consider the context. Columbus was playing at home and had the advantage of a rested roster. In contrast, this upcoming game finds them on the road and on the second night of a back-to-back, a scenario in which they've historically underperformed.

The Capitals, despite the absence of Ovechkin, possess depth and a strong home record. Their ability to bounce back after a loss, especially at Capital One Arena, should not be underestimated. The motivation to avenge their recent defeat and solidify their playoff positioning adds to their incentive.

Given these factors, the Capitals are likely to secure a victory in this matchup. Bettors might consider the Capitals on the moneyline and the over on total goals, considering both teams' offensive capabilities and recent trends.

Pick: Washington Capitals -170; Over 6.5 goals

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