Florida Panthers (15-8-2) vs. Columbus Blue Jackets (8-14-5)
Florida Panthers vs. Columbus Blue Jackets 12/10/23 – On Sunday, December 10th at Nationwide Arena, the Florida Panthers take on Columbus Blue Jackets in an intriguing hockey battle between two division leaders; Florida are currently 2nd in Atlantic while Columbus are currently 8th. Fans seeking free hockey game insights should tune into this thrilling matchup as both teams look to assert dominance on the ice; it promises an intense hockey matchup full of strategy, skill and determination from start to finish!
The Panthers boast one of the most potent offenses in the league, led by centers Sam Reinhart and Aleksander Barkov. Reinhart is having a career year so far with 17 goals, while Barkov continues to be a dynamic playmaker. This one-two punch at center should be able to exploit Columbus’ mediocre defensive corps.
For the Blue Jackets, wings Patrik Laine and Johnny Gaudreau lead the charge. Though Gaudreau has underperformed so far, he has shown in the past he can take over games. Laine possesses one of the strongest shots in the league. However, Florida has given up the 4th fewest goals against this season, so the Blue Jackets’ scorers have their work cut out.
Florida Panthers vs. Columbus Blue Jackets Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 10, 2023, at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Nationwide Arena |
| TV: | NHL |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky vs. Goaltender Elvis Merzlikins
Sergei Bobrovsky has returned to Vezina Trophy form this season for the Panthers, posting remarkable numbers that include 2.49 GAA and.910 save percentage. Going against his former team in Columbus — whom he led to multiple playoff appearances during seven years while winning two Vezina Awards — would provide Bobrovsky an ideal opportunity to make an impressionful statement game; now back with Florida he could regain some confidence against them! Bobrovsky could single-handedly turn games in their direction when at his peak performance!
Elvis Merzlikins of Columbus has seen an increased shot volume this season, leading to a 3.10 goals-against-average (GAA). Though Merzlikins has shown flashes of brilliance at times and can certainly hold his own, Florida’s shot barrage could overwhelm Merzlikins today and cause him to let in 4 or more goals five times out of his last 10 starts – led by Aleksander Barkov and Sam Reinhart as centers they possess enough firepower to give him fits all game long if he fails to start as expected in Columbus at home!
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
As of now, the betting odds for the game are yet to be determined. However, considering the Panthers’ stronger record and offensive capabilities, they might be favored in the moneyline. Bettors should keep an eye on the evolving odds for insights and potential value bets.
Florida Panthers Betting Trends
The Panthers have been solid lately, going 3-2 both straight up and against the spread in their last 5 contests. They have also been superb on the road, covering in 9 of their 14 away matchups this season. The over has hit in 7 of Florida’s 12 home games as well, indicative of high-scoring affairs.
Columbus Blue Jackets Betting Trends
While the Blue Jackets are 3-2 over their past 5 games, they have struggled to cover spreads with a 15-25 record ATS this season. However, the over has hit in 6 of Columbus’ last 15 home games. The Blue Jackets’ defensive issues paired with Florida’s scoring prowess could lead this game to sail over the total.
Florida Panthers vs. Columbus Blue Jackets 12/10/23 Betting Picks
Considering the data and trends, the Panthers seem to have the upper hand in this matchup. Their offensive prowess, coupled with Bobrovsky’s reliability in goal, gives them an edge. However, the Blue Jackets’ resilience, especially in away games, should not be underestimated.
For bettors, the Panthers might be the safer pick, but the Blue Jackets could offer value, especially if the odds favor a significant underdog scenario. In terms of prop bets and over/under, the game’s potentially high-scoring nature suggests that betting on the over might be a wise choice. Keep an eye on the evolving odds and trends for the best multi-handicapper picks.
Free Pick and Prediction: Florida Panthers 4, Columbus Blue Jackets 2