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Washington (5-2-0) at Columbus (3-3-0)
- When: Oct 24 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Nationwide Arena, Columbus, OH, USA
- TV: MNMT2
Washington vs Columbus NHL Preview & Pick
Moneyline: Washington -125
Spread: Washington -1.5 (+200)
Total: 6.0
Washington Capitals Outlook
When Alex Ovechkin steps on the ice in Columbus, the storyline practically writes itself. Nearly 20 years after scoring his first two NHL goals against the Blue Jackets, the Great Eight returns sitting at 898, just two away from another historic milestone. He’s not lighting the lamp quite like he used to, with only one goal in seven games, but betting against him finding his rhythm is a dangerous move.
The Capitals have rediscovered their form after a sluggish start, winning five of their last six. Tuesday’s 4-1 victory over Seattle was vintage Washington: structured defense, balanced scoring, and strong goaltending from Logan Thompson, who turned away 18 shots. Nic Dowd chipped in a goal and assist, while rookie Ryan Leonard continued to impress, scoring for the second straight game.
Head coach Spencer Carbery’s squad has also reignited its power play, converting in four consecutive games. The addition of defenseman Jakob Chychrun to the top unit has added mobility and crisp puck movement. With Thompson and Charlie Lindgren expected to split the back-to-back starts, the Capitals should have fresh legs in net and plenty of offensive confidence heading into this one.
Player Prop Pick: Alex Ovechkin Anytime Goal – Ovechkin loves the spotlight and has a track record of punishing Columbus. With his chase for 900 heating up, he’s due for another breakout moment.
Columbus Blue Jackets Outlook
The Blue Jackets enter this matchup with momentum after back-to-back convincing wins, including a 5-1 rout over Dallas. Boone Jenner, Adam Fantilli, and Kent Johnson each recorded a goal and assist in that victory, proving Columbus can attack from multiple lines when clicking. Their structure looked much improved, holding a high-powered Stars offense to limited chances.
Coach Dean Evason’s defensive emphasis has paid off, and both goaltenders have thrived under the new system. Elvis Merzlikins made 22 saves in the Dallas win, and if the rotation continues, 24-year-old Jet Greaves is in line for the start. Greaves has been impressive early, posting a 2.04 goals-against average and .928 save percentage in limited action.
The Blue Jackets will need another disciplined effort to slow down Washington’s potent power play and Ovechkin’s looming scoring threat. Columbus has shown more confidence recently, but consistency remains the key. If they can replicate their defensive intensity from Dallas and sustain offensive pressure, they’ll have a chance to pull off the home upset.
Player Prop Pick: Adam Fantilli Over 2.5 Shots on Goal – The rookie continues to grow more assertive with each game, firing confidently and driving play in the offensive zone. Expect another active night from the young forward.
NHL Prediction and Final Score
Both teams enter on hot streaks, but Washington’s experience and power-play surge give them the edge. The Capitals’ top line has found chemistry, and with Ovechkin chasing history, motivation won’t be an issue. Columbus will make it scrappy early, but the Capitals’ depth and discipline should prevail late.
Score Prediction: Capitals 4, Blue Jackets 2
Pick: Washington (-125)
Total: Under 6.5 Alt Lines (-135)
- NHL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
