Columbus (0-0-0) at Minnesota (0-0-0)
- When: Oct 10 2024, 8:00 PM
- Where: Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul, MN, USA
- Where to watch: BSN
Columbus Blue Jackets @ Minnesota Wild
Moneyline
Columbus Blue Jackets +200
Minnesota Wild -240
Columbus Blue Jackets @ Minnesota Wild
Puck Line
Columbus Blue Jackets 1.5 (-128)
Minnesota Wild -1.5 (+107)
Columbus Blue Jackets @ Minnesota Wild
Total
Over 6.0 (-120)
Under 6.0 (EVEN)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Team Stats
| Blue Jackets | Wild | |
| 0-0-0 | Record | 0-0-0 |
| 0-0-0 | Away & Home | 0-0-0 |
| 0-0-0 | Last 10 | 0-0-0 |
| – | Streak | – |
Last Matchup:
MIN 4-3, January 6th, 2024
Game Preview
The Columbus Blue Jackets are set to open their season with heavy hearts as they take on the Minnesota Wild on Thursday night in St. Paul, Minnesota. This game marks the first for the Blue Jackets since the tragic passing of star forward Johnny Gaudreau, who was killed by a suspected drunk driver this offseason, alongside his younger brother, Matthew, during a bicycle ride just before their sister’s wedding.
In tribute to Gaudreau, Blue Jackets goaltender Elvis Merzlikins will don a "13" on his mask throughout the season. "I wanted to have Johnny with us this season," Merzlikins said, highlighting the emotional significance of the upcoming match.
Head coach Dean Evason aims to help his players navigate this challenging period and has emphasized a straightforward strategy for the season. With the Blue Jackets looking to start strong, Evason stated, “We want to see them all work and compete every single day—whether it’s practice, drills, or games.”
On the other side, the Minnesota Wild are also keen to bounce back after missing the playoffs last season. The team will rely on their star playmaker, Kirill Kaprizov, who had an impressive season last year with 46 goals and 50 assists. Alongside him, Matt Boldy and Joel Eriksson Ek return to bolster the offense.
Rookie defenseman Brock Faber, who had a standout season with 47 points, aims to build on his success. He acknowledged his room for improvement, stating, “I have a lot to give. Playing my first full year helped me realize what it takes to be consistently dominant in this league.”
In net, Filip Gustavsson will start for the Wild, looking to rebound from a tough previous season. He has a solid record against Columbus, with a 1-0-1 mark, a 2.81 GAA, and a .932 save percentage. Meanwhile, Merzlikins will be in goal for the Blue Jackets, having had success in previous matchups against the Wild.
As the teams face off, betting lines will be closely monitored, with the Blue Jackets seeking to honor their fallen teammate by starting the season on a high note while the Wild aim to regain their footing after a disappointing previous campaign.
NHL Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Minnesota 5-3
The Pick: Minnesota -240 & Over 6 (-120)
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $260
NHL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
