New Jersey Devils vs Columbus Blue Jackets Prediction – 3/17/2025

The New Jersey Devils are set to face the Columbus Blue Jackets tonight at 7:00 PM at Nationwide Arena. Both teams are eager to secure a win, with the Devils aiming to solidify their playoff position and the Blue Jackets striving to break a recent losing streak.

New Jersey Devils vs Columbus Blue Jackets Game Preview

The Devils enter this game with a 36-26-6 record, placing them third in the Metropolitan Division. Their recent performance includes a 7-3 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins, which snapped a three-game winning streak. In that game, Jesper Bratt contributed three assists, while Jacob Markstrom allowed six goals on 22 shots. Markstrom's recent form has been concerning, with a 4.23 goals-against average and a .828 save percentage over his last five games. Additionally, the Devils are without key defensemen Dougie Hamilton and Jonas Siegenthaler, impacting their defensive stability.

Offensively, the Devils have been consistent, scoring three or more goals in seven of their last ten games. They rank 14th in goals per game and 13th in shots per game. Jesper Bratt leads the team with 79 points, and Nico Hischier has added 28 goals and 24 assists. However, the absence of Jack Hughes, who is out for the season due to a shoulder injury, is a significant blow to their offensive depth.

The Blue Jackets hold a 31-27-8 record and are currently fifth in the Metropolitan Division. They are on a three-game losing streak, including back-to-back shutout losses to the New York Rangers and the Vegas Golden Knights. In their most recent game, they managed only 21 shots on goal and went 0-3 on the power play. Goaltender Daniil Tarasov stopped 17 of 20 shots in that contest.

Despite recent struggles, the Blue Jackets have been strong at home, boasting a 20-8-4 record at Nationwide Arena. They lead the NHL with 3.81 goals per game at home this season. Kirill Marchenko has been a standout, recording 62 points, while Zach Werenski leads the team with 69 points. However, their defense has been a weak point, ranking 27th in goals against per game and shots against per game. Goaltender Elvis Merzlikins has a 3.04 goals-against average and a .896 save percentage this season.

Betting Insights

As of the latest odds, the Devils are favored with a moneyline of -135, while the Blue Jackets are at +115. The over/under for the game is set at 6.5 goals. Notably, the Devils have won seven of their last ten meetings against the Blue Jackets, averaging 4.30 goals per game in those matchups. Conversely, the Blue Jackets have been shut out in their last two games but have a strong home record this season.

New Jersey Devils vs Columbus Blue Jackets Prediction

Considering the current form and statistics, this game presents a compelling matchup. The Devils have demonstrated offensive consistency and have a favorable recent history against the Blue Jackets. However, their defensive injuries and Markstrom's recent struggles in goal are concerns. On the other hand, the Blue Jackets' recent offensive drought is alarming, but their impressive home performance throughout the season cannot be overlooked.

Given these factors, the Devils appear to have the edge in this contest. Their offensive depth and recent success against Columbus suggest they can capitalize on the Blue Jackets' defensive vulnerabilities. Therefore, the prediction is for the New Jersey Devils to win this game, with the total goals likely exceeding 6.5, considering both teams' tendencies and current form.