Vegas (38-19-7) at Columbus (31-25-8)
- When: Mar 13 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Nationwide Arena, Columbus, OH, USA
- TV: FDSOH
Game Preview
NHL Matchup: Golden Knights vs. Blue Jackets Betting Preview
Vegas (-172) vs. Columbus | Total: 6.5
Two teams looking to get back in the win column meet Thursday night as the Vegas Golden Knights travel to face the Columbus Blue Jackets. Both squads are coming off losses, with Vegas dropping an overtime heartbreaker to the Penguins, while Columbus fell on the road to the Devils.
Vegas Golden Knights
Vegas (39-25-7) has stumbled slightly after a four-game winning streak, now winless in its last two outings (0-1-1). The Golden Knights rallied late to force overtime against Pittsburgh on Tuesday, but ultimately fell 3-2 after a quick OT goal by Erik Karlsson.
Despite the loss, Vegas dominated the third period with a staggering 19-4 shot advantage and outshot Pittsburgh 38-17 for the game. Defenseman Noah Hanifin, who tied the game with seven seconds left in regulation, acknowledged the offensive pressure but lamented missed opportunities.
“We had a lot of looks in the third period,” Hanifin said. “Fortunately, we capitalized late, but their goalie made some good saves.”
Jack Eichel picked up an assist, tying the franchise record for points in a season (78). He remains a key factor as the Golden Knights continue their playoff push.
Vegas will be aiming to snap this brief skid and take advantage of a struggling Columbus team that has had trouble keeping opponents off the scoreboard.
Columbus Blue Jackets
The Blue Jackets (24-40-8) have struggled defensively, dropping three of their last four games and allowing five goals in their most recent loss to New Jersey. Columbus fell into a deep hole early, trailing 3-0 after the first period, and couldn’t complete the comeback despite a strong push in the middle frame.
Mathieu Olivier was a bright spot, scoring twice and continuing his recent hot streak with five goals in his last seven games. Despite the offensive effort, he acknowledged the team’s inconsistency.
“We were stubborn in making decisions out there, and it cost us,” Olivier said. “We had times where we executed the game plan, but we didn’t stick to it.”
Kirill Marchenko added his 15th goal of the season, but Columbus couldn’t sustain pressure, conceding another goal late in the second and one just 26 seconds into the third. Goaltender Elvis Merzlikins stopped 23 shots but didn’t receive enough defensive support.
With the Blue Jackets still trying to find consistency, facing a Vegas team that generates high shot volume will put their goaltending under heavy pressure once again.
Betting Prediction
Vegas is clearly the stronger team here, and while Columbus has shown flashes of offensive promise, its defensive issues are glaring. The Golden Knights’ ability to create scoring chances should be too much for the Blue Jackets to handle, especially if they control possession like they did against Pittsburgh.
✔ Pick: Vegas (-172) to Win
✔ Lean: Over 6.5 (-108) – Vegas should find the back of the net often against Columbus’ shaky defense
- NHL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
