Welcome back to NHL Predictions. Each day, Last Word on Hockey takes a look at the games that are scheduled then offers insight and analysis to help predict who will be victorious in head-to-head matchups. Today we are looking at the game between the Columbus Blue Jackets versus the Florida Panthers. Be sure to check out more NHL Predictions as the 2024-25 season continues.
NHL Predictions
Columbus Blue Jackets versus Florida Panthers
Time: 7:00 p.m Eastern Standard Time (EST)
TV: FDSNOH, SCRIPPS
Two big points are on the line for both teams as the Columbus Blue Jackets (30-23–8) face-off against the Florida Panthers (38-21-3). The is the second of three meetings this season. The Panthers got the best of the Blue Jackets 4-3 back in early October. Who will add to their point total tonight?
Blue Jackets Battling For a Wild Card Spot in these NHL Predictions
Columbus continues to impress. Right in the thick of the Eastern Conference Wild Card battle they have already exceeded many peoples expectations. However, now that they are in this position the big question is can they finish the job and get to the postseason? Starting with the Tampa Bay Lightning last night the Blue Jackets are in the toughest stretch of their schedule facing eight teams in a row who are in or fighting for the playoffs.
The good news for the Blue Jackets is they are starting to get healthier. Captain Boone Jenner returned in the Stadium Series victory over the Detroit Red Wings earlier on March 1st. Yegor Chinakhov returned last game against the Lightning. Both are like deadline additions for the Jackets. They should help boost the offensive attack. With Zach Werenski playing like a Norris Trophy contender from the backend Columbus should not be taken lightly down the stretch.
Florida Fighting For The Division
The reigning champions continue to look the part as they once again battle for top spot in the Atlantic Division. Florida’s last game was also against the Lightning. They beat their state rivals 2-1 in what could be a playoff preview come spring. That was new addition Seth Jones’ first game as a Panther. He seemed to fit in playing almost 23 minutes in a top four role next to Niko Mikkola. With Matthew Tkachuk’s cap hit on LTIR more additions are likely to be on the way.
Florida has been tough to beat at home this season going 20-10-2. They have been even hotter lately going 8-2-0 in their last ten games. Up front they have been led by captain Aleksander Barkov who has 14 points in those ten games. On defence Aaron Ekblad is riding a four-game point streak. In net look for Sergei Bobrovsky to get the start going for his fourth straight win.
Prediction
This is a huge game for both teams which should make for a entertaining game. The Blue Jackets getting healthier makes them much more dangerous. However, the Panthers have been reminding everyone why they are the team to beat in the East lately. Look for Florida’s forecheck to cause problems. If they can make Columbus play in their own end then a five game win streak might be on the way.
NHL Predictions: Panthers win 4-2
Prop Bets of The Night
The best bet all week will be to watch for players being held out for roster management reasons. This could affect the prop bets of the night. For the game tonight Sam Reinhart hasn’t scored in a couple games. At his scoring pace he is due. He is + 110 as an anytime goal scorer. For Columbus Werenski had two goals in their last game. He is +400 to score tonight.
Main Photo Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images
Please play responsibly, check for your local rules and age restrictions, some jurisdictions require ages 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
The post NHL Predictions March 6th Columbus Blue Jackets versus Florida Panthers appeared first on Last Word On Hockey.