Blue Jackets vs. Predators Odds
| Blue Jackets Odds | +230 |
| Predators Odds | -280 |
| Over / Under | 6.5 +100o / -120u |
Here's everything you need to know about the Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Nashville Predators on Saturday, April 13 – our expert NHL prediction and pick.
Saturday night's NHL matchup between the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Nashville Predators has serious implications for only one of the two teams in the standings. Nashville enters this game seeking to solidify their playoff positioning within an uber-competitive Western Conference wild card race.
With Columbus’ season essentially over, we must decide on the best bet in this game with two teams possessing massive inequalities in talent. Let's get to my Blue Jackets vs. Predators prediction for Saturday evening.
Columbus Blue Jackets
The Blue Jackets come into this game as major +240 underdogs for obvious reasons as they sit in the basement of the Eastern Conference. Offensively, Columbus has struggled to generate high-quality scoring chances, ranking 29th in xG%. However, they've been somewhat efficient in converting their opportunities, sitting 18th in expected goals scored.
Defensively, the Jackets have also faced significant challenges, ranking dead last in expected goals against. Tonight’s starting goaltender, Jet Greaves, has performed admirably despite facing a barrage of shots, boasting a solid save percentage and excelling in save percentage above expected. However, he's faced a barrage of shots due to the team's porous defense, leading to a high goals against average (GAA).
To overcome their defensive deficiencies, the Blue Jackets will need to tighten up defensively and rely on Greaves to stand tall between the pipes. One positive to look at in this matchup is Columbus was able to stay competitive in their last game against Nashville where they lost 2-1 at home last month.
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Nashville Predators
On the other hand, the Predators have been more consistent in their performances, particularly on the offensive end. Ranking sixth in xG%, ninth in Corsi% and seventh in high-danger chances, Nashville has demonstrated a knack for creating legitimate scoring chances and converting them into goals. They are also the eighth-highest scoring team on the power play this season.
Defensively, while they've been solid, there's room for improvement, especially in reducing the number of goals allowed on the penalty kill. Starting goaltender Juuse Saros has been reliable and will need to perform at or above his expectations to eliminate the minor Blue Jackets' offensive threats. The Predators are one of 12 teams that have allowed more goals than they have scored at home this season and have allowed the 13th-most goals at home.
With the Predators’ balanced offensive attack and with potential to shore up their defensive shortcomings, the Predators will aim to assert their dominance on home ice and secure crucial points leading to the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
The Predators are one of 12 teams that have allowed more goals than they have scored at home this season and have allowed the 13th-most goals at home.
Blue Jackets vs. Predators
Betting Pick & Prediction
Given the Predators’ offensive prowess and both teams’ respective defensive vulnerabilities, betting over 6.5 goals appears to be the best for this matchup.
With the Blue Jackets struggling to keep the puck out of their own net and the Predators boasting a potent offensive lineup, a high-scoring affair seems likely. Additionally, both teams possess the firepower to capitalize on power play opportunities, further increasing the likelihood of a goal-filled game.
Expect a 4-3 or 5-2 victory by the Predators where they show off their offensive talent yet still allow a few goals to the Jackets, especially on the power play.
Pick: Over 6.5 (+100)
