Utah HC (21-21-8) sits 6th іn the Central Division. They are оn a three-game losing streak and have a 4-5-1 record іn their last 10 games. At home, they are 8-11-5.
Offensively, Utah ranks 22nd іn goals scored, 21st іn shots оn goal, 13th іn power play efficiency, and 20th іn shooting percentage. Defensively, they are 15th іn goals allowed, 17th іn shots against, and have a strong 7th-ranked penalty kill but average five penalties per game.
Goaltender Karel Vejmelka (11-14-3, 2.47 GAA, .912 SV%) іs confirmed tо start. This will be his first matchup against Columbus.
Columbus Looks to Extend Their Hot Streak
Columbus Blue Jackets (24-19-7) are 4th іn the Metropolitan Division and have been strong lately, going 7-2-1 іn their last 10 games. They are coming off a Saturday night win.
On the road, Columbus struggles with a 7-14-4 record. Their offense іs strong, ranking 7th іn goals, 9th іn shots, and 12th іn power play efficiency, with an 11.2% shooting percentage.
Defensively, Columbus ranks near the bottom іn goals allowed and shots against. Their penalty kill іs weak, and they average four penalties per game.
Goaltender Daniil Tarasov (4-7-2, 3.83 GAA, .871 SV%) is expected to start. He has been inconsistent, giving Utah a chance to capitalize.
Blue Jackets vs. Utah HC: Betting Odds and Game Information
Betting Odds
- Puck Line: Blue Jackets +1.5 (-168) | Utah HC -1.5 (+136)
- Moneyline: Blue Jackets +146 | Utah HC -178
- Total Goals: Over 6.5 (-110) | Under 6.5 (-110)
Game Details
- Venue: Delta Center, Salt Lake City, UT
- Date: Friday, January 31, 2025
- Puck Drop: 9 PM EST
Prediction and Picks
Expect a high-scoring game, with Utah likely to produce more goals. Tarasov’s high GAA suggests a potential 8-9 goal total.
- Clayton Keller (18 goals, 36 assists) is a strong pick for 3+ shots on goal and an assist.
- Vejmelka over saves is another solid bet, as Columbus averages 30 shots per game, and he should face heavy pressure.
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