Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NHL match.
The Columbus Blue Jackets continue to deliver engaging performances they can be proud of. Despite sitting at the bottom of their division, they are capable of defeating almost any opponent at home. The Tampa Bay Lightning should brace themselves for a battle.
Columbus Blue Jackets
The most recent triumph for the Blue Jackets came on the road against the Boston Bruins (5:1). Elvis Merzlikins was outstanding in goal, posting a 96.6% save percentage, and the penalty kill units excelled, not only surviving five out of six power plays but also scoring two shorthanded goals playing 4-on-5. The first two lines took responsibility for scoring at even strength. At home, the Blue Jackets rarely lose, with just three losses in eight games, and they score plenty. Only two of their eight home games featured fewer than six goals.
Tampa Bay Lightning
The Lightning currently sit third in their division but haven't been overly impressive. The first wild card holders, the New York Rangers, are four points ahead of the Lightning, with the Buffalo Sabres trailing by just two points. At Amalie Arena, the Lightning are tough to break down, allowing no more than one goal in their last three-game home series, while scoring no more than four. On the road, they play more expansive hockey, with six out of nine away games this season featuring a combined total of at least six goals.
Columbus Blue Jackets vs Tampa Bay Lightning Prediction
Matches between these teams tend to be interesting and high-scoring. In six of their last seven encounters, they've scored six goals or more. The most common scorelines have been 4:2 or 5:2. It seems like they’re accustomed to this trend, which is why we’re backing the total over.
