NHL Preview: Columbus Blue Jackets at Boston Bruins
The Columbus Blue Jackets face a daunting challenge as they travel to Boston to take on the Bruins. This matchup offers a prime opportunity to fade a struggling Columbus team and back a motivated Bruins squad looking to bounce back.
Columbus is in the midst of a tough stretch, losing seven of their last eight games. In all seven defeats, the Blue Jackets have managed to score two or fewer goals, highlighting their offensive struggles. Their road performance has been particularly dismal, with a 1-8 record away from home this season. To make matters worse, this will be Columbus’ third game in four nights, a taxing schedule that has often led to late-game fatigue and poor execution.
Boston, on the other hand, comes into this game off two consecutive losses, including a frustrating overtime defeat at home against St. Louis. The Bruins are unlikely to overlook this struggling Columbus team and should be focused on ending their skid. Boston’s home form has been solid, and they’ll be eager to exploit a Blue Jackets team that has consistently underperformed on the road.
Given Boston’s strong position as a -185 moneyline favorite, bettors have two viable options: taking the Bruins on the puck line (-1.5) at +138 or opting for a more conservative play with Boston to win in regulation (-120).
Key Points to Consider:
- Columbus’ Scoring Woes: The Blue Jackets have been unable to generate offense during their current slump, averaging fewer than two goals per game in their last eight contests.
- Boston’s Motivation: After back-to-back losses, including a home defeat in overtime, the Bruins will be determined to respond with a strong effort against a weaker opponent.
- Fatigue Factor: This is Columbus’ third game in four nights, a tough schedule that typically impacts performance, especially against a well-rested and focused team like Boston.
- Boston’s One-Goal Games: While the puck line offers value at +138, the Bruins have had several one-goal games recently, making the regulation win at -120 the safer bet.
Betting Recommendation:
The Bruins are in an excellent spot to capitalize on Columbus’ struggles and secure a regulation win. With Boston likely to come out strong and Columbus showing no signs of road improvement, the best play here is Boston to win in regulation at -120.
Lean: Boston -120 in Regulation