Blue Jackets vs Lightning
Bolts Aim to Strike Down Blue Jackets

Columbus Blue Jackets vs Tampa Bay Lightning
March 4th 2025 | 7:00 PM EST | Amalie Arena, Tampa, FL

The Tampa Bay Lightning, known for their offensive firepower, are set to host the Columbus Blue Jackets, who have been inconsistent on the road. Tampa Bay's forward Nikita Kucherov has been a standout performer this season, leading the team with 28 goals and 41 assists. In contrast, the Blue Jackets have struggled recently, losing four of their last six games, and are dealing with injuries to key players like defenseman Adam Boqvist (upper-body injury) and forward Patrik Laine (clavicle fracture). Given these factors, betting on the Lightning's moneyline at -170 is a solid choice, earning a grade of B for its balance of risk and potential return.
The Tampa Bay Lightning, led by offensive juggernaut Nikita Kucherov, who boasts 87 points this season, host the Columbus Blue Jackets, who have struggled historically at Amalie Arena with a 5-15-4 record. Tampa Bay's goaltender, Andrei Vasilevskiy, has been formidable, maintaining a .916 save percentage. Conversely, Columbus has been hampered by injuries, notably to forward Patrik Laine (clavicle fracture) and defenseman Adam Boqvist (upper body). Given these factors, betting on the Lightning to cover the puck line at +143 offers substantial value, earning a grade of B+ for its favorable risk-to-reward ratio.
The Tampa Bay Lightning, boasting a potent offense led by Nikita Kucherov's 87 points this season, host the Columbus Blue Jackets, who have been involved in high-scoring affairs recently, averaging over 5 goals per game in their last three outings. Tampa Bay's defense has shown vulnerabilities, allowing an average of 3 goals per game over their past five contests. Historically, matchups between these teams have trended towards high totals, with the over hitting in 6 of their last 10 meetings. Considering these factors, betting on the over (6.5) is a strategic choice, earning a grade of B+ for its favorable balance of risk and potential return.
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