Blue Jackets vs Rangers

Artemi Panarin looks primed to exploit a shaky Columbus defense, especially with the Blue Jackets enduring a short losing skid and missing key contributors confirmed via ESPN’s active rosters; they will struggle to slow a Rangers squad riding a promising win streak. New York’s previous conference triumphs against Columbus, combined with the Blue Jackets’ depleted core, tilt the scales toward the home side. With the Rangers priced at -125, the payout remains solid, and given their momentum, this bet earns an A for both likelihood and value if it cashes.

Johnny Gaudreau and his Columbus squad, riding a two-game winning streak, face a Rangers team looking to snap their own recent slide, and both rosters still appear poised for a high-scoring night. Although Columbus might be without a key forward like Patrik Laine, New York’s lineup remains largely intact; Adam Fox’s recent wrist scare seems resolved, boosting the Rangers’ defensive core. Historically, these franchises have traded goals in entertaining matchups against their Metropolitan Division foes, often pushing totals above the 6.5 mark. Banking on another open-ice affair, the Over delivers a decent return at +110, and this pick earns a B+ for its likelihood of padding bettors’ pockets.