Vegas Golden Knights vs Columbus Blue Jackets Prediction – 3/13/2025

The Vegas Golden Knights are set to face the Columbus Blue Jackets on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. ET at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio. This matchup features two teams with contrasting recent performances, making it an intriguing contest for hockey enthusiasts and bettors alike.

Vegas Golden Knights vs Columbus Blue Jackets Game Preview

The Golden Knights enter this game with a 38-19-7 record, placing them at the top of the Pacific Division. However, they've hit a rough patch, losing their last two games, including a 3-2 overtime defeat to the Pittsburgh Penguins. Despite these setbacks, Vegas boasts a potent offense, averaging 3.34 goals per game, ranking fifth in the league. Their defense is also formidable, allowing just 2.74 goals per game, placing them ninth overall. Key players include Jack Eichel, who has accumulated 78 points this season, and Tomas Hertl, leading the team with 27 goals. Goaltender Adin Hill, expected to start, holds a 23-11-4 record with a 2.60 goals-against average.

On the other side, the Blue Jackets hold a 31-25-8 record, positioning them fourth in the Metropolitan Division. They recently suffered a 5-3 loss to the New Jersey Devils but have been strong at home, boasting a 20-6-4 record at Nationwide Arena. Columbus's offense mirrors Vegas's, averaging 3.33 goals per game, ranking sixth in the league. However, their defense has been less reliable, conceding 3.31 goals per game, placing them 27th. Defenseman Zach Werenski leads the team with 69 points, while Kirill Marchenko has netted 25 goals. Goalie Elvis Merzlikins, likely to start, has a 22-17-4 record with a 3.04 goals-against average.

Betting Insights

According to recent betting odds, the Golden Knights are favored with a moneyline of -160, while the Blue Jackets are underdogs at +135. The over/under for the game is set at 6.5 goals. Notably, the Blue Jackets have excelled at home, and the Golden Knights have struggled on the road, with a 14-12-4 away record. Additionally, the Blue Jackets have won three of their last four night games at Nationwide Arena against opponents on a losing streak.

Vegas Golden Knights vs Columbus Blue Jackets Prediction

Considering the current form and home advantage, the Blue Jackets have a strong opportunity to capitalize on the Golden Knights' recent struggles. While Vegas possesses a robust offense and defense, their recent road performances raise concerns. Columbus's potent offense, combined with their impressive home record, suggests they could exploit Vegas's vulnerabilities. Therefore, the prediction leans towards a Blue Jackets victory, potentially with a scoreline of 5-4.