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Utah (33-25-4) at Columbus (32-21-8)
- When: Mar 7 2026, 7:00 PM
- Where: Nationwide Arena, Columbus, OH, USA
- TV: Utah16
Utah vs Columbus NHL Preview & Pick
Moneyline: Utah -115
Spread: Utah -1.5 (+215)
Total: 6.0
Tonight’s matchup between the Columbus Blue Jackets and Utah Mammoth brings serious playoff implications as both teams continue battling for Wild Card positioning. The current market lists Utah as a slight road favorite at -115 with the total set at 6.0 goals. However, momentum and home ice could make Columbus the more attractive betting side in this spot.
Columbus Blue Jackets Betting Breakdown
Columbus has been one of the NHL’s most improved teams since Rick Bowness stepped behind the bench in mid January. Under his leadership, the Blue Jackets have posted an impressive 13-2-1 record, quickly transforming themselves into a legitimate playoff contender.
The offensive surge has been particularly noticeable. Columbus is averaging just over four goals per game during this hot stretch, and the lineup recently gained another weapon with the trade acquisition of winger Conor Garland.
Garland arrives from Vancouver with a track record as a proven scorer, including multiple 20 goal seasons. While he has recorded seven goals and 19 assists through 50 games this year, his playmaking ability and speed should fit nicely into the Blue Jackets’ aggressive offensive system.
Columbus continued its strong play Thursday with a 4-2 victory over the Florida Panthers. Mathieu Olivier led the way with two goals, while defenseman Ivan Provorov contributed a goal and two assists. Captain Boone Jenner also found the back of the net and continues to be a steady presence in the lineup.
The Blue Jackets’ ability to pressure opponents offensively while maintaining strong puck battles has been a major reason for their recent success. With the home crowd behind them and confidence high, Columbus has a great opportunity to extend its winning streak.
Utah Mammoth Betting Breakdown
Utah enters this matchup in solid form as well. The Mammoth have won two straight games and recently shut out the Philadelphia Flyers 3-0 on the road.
Nick Schmaltz opened the scoring in that game and continues to be one of Utah’s key offensive contributors. The Mammoth have relied heavily on structured defensive play and opportunistic scoring during this recent stretch.
Utah also made a notable move before the trade deadline by acquiring defenseman MacKenzie Weegar from Calgary. Although Weegar has produced just three goals and 18 assists in 60 games this season, Utah hopes he can rediscover the form that previously made him a reliable two way contributor with multiple 40 point seasons.
There is some uncertainty on Utah’s blue line entering this game. Defenseman Mikhail Sergachev is dealing with an upper body injury and may not be available. If Sergachev cannot play, Utah’s defensive depth will be tested against a Columbus offense that has been generating consistent scoring chances.
NHL Betting Prediction
This matchup is tighter than the odds indicate. Utah has been playing solid hockey, but Columbus currently has stronger momentum and the benefit of home ice.
With the Blue Jackets scoring consistently and adding another offensive weapon in Garland, they look well positioned to keep their winning streak alive.
Score Prediction: Blue Jackets 3, Mammoth 2
Pick: Columbus ML (+105)
Total: Under 6.0 (-105)
- NHL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
