Columbus Blue Jackets (14-23-9) vs. Vancouver Canucks (32-11-4)
Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Vancouver Canucks 1/27/24 – As the NHL season progresses, the upcoming match between the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Vancouver Canucks is attracting significant attention from fans and bettors alike. With the Blue Jackets struggling to find consistency in their game they face a formidable challenge against the Canucks, who boast an impressive standing. This encounter is set to take place on Saturday, promising to be a crucial showdown for both teams. As we delve into the top hockey picks for this match, it’s clear that the stakes are high, with both teams eager to secure a victory.
The Blue Jackets offensive lineup, led by standout players like Johnny Gaudreau and Adam Fantilli, has shown moments of brilliance but struggles to be consistent against opposition defenses. Gaudreau currently boasts 29 points from 7 goals and 22 assists while Fantilli contributed 25 points this season; both will need to penetrate Vancouver goaltender Thatcher Demko’s sturdy defense to have any chance against them. In order to counter these formidable opponents successfully, their offense must elevate significantly in order to compete effectively with these formidable opponents.
J.T. Miller and Elias Pettersson have led Vancouver’s impressive offense this season, amassing an impressive total of 63 points from 21 goals and 42 assists combined; along with Pettersson’s 61 points. Both players present significant threats against a Blue Jackets defense that has struggled mightily this season; further enhancing Vancouver’s offensive power while keeping team morale high in preparation for a highly-anticipated clash against Columbus’ defensive unit.
Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Vancouver Canucks 1/27/24 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, January 27, 2024 at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Rogers Arena |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Elvis Merzlikins vs. Goaltender Thatcher Demko
In 26 games played this season, Elvis Merzlikins has struggled with an 8-10-6 record along with a 3.29 goals against average and a .903 save percentage. He has faced a heavy workload, playing 1460 minutes while making 745 saves on 825 shots. Merzlikins has allowed 80 goals and has a poor save percentage that puts him near the bottom of the league for regular starters. He could have difficulty containing the Canucks’ dangerous scorers.
Meanwhile, Thatcher Demko has excelled this season for Vancouver with a 25-8-1 record in 34 games. He boasts an impressive 2.4 goals against average and a .922 save percentage that ranks among the NHL’s leaders. In 2024 minutes played, Demko has an excellent ratio of 951 saves on 1032 shots faced. He’s allowed just 81 goals all year thanks to his strong technical game that takes away angles. Demko’s consistency gives Vancouver a trustworthy presence in net versus a struggling Blue Jackets attack. He has a clear edge over Merzlikins in this goaltender matchup.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
As the betting odds for this game remain to be determined, bettors and fans alike are eagerly awaiting the lines to gauge the market’s sentiment. The Canucks, with their superior record and home advantage, are likely to be favored, but the dynamics of NHL games always leave room for unpredictability. Insights and recommendations based on the opening odds will be crucial for those looking to place informed bets.
Columbus Blue Jackets Betting Trends
The Blue Jackets have gone over the total in three of their last five overall, but those were all at home. On the road, the under is 14-6 in Columbus’ last 19 games. The Jackets have also covered in 13 of their 26 away matchups. However, they have failed to cover in seven straight versus opponents with a winning record. Columbus is just 1-5 straight up over its last six contests coming into this tough road environment.
Vancouver Canucks Betting Trends
The Canucks have been rolling from a betting perspective, covering five straight games overall. They are 16-9 against the spread in front of their home fans as well. Vancouver has played under the total in four of its previous five contests. The Canucks are 4-1 straight up in their last five matchups. They have also won five straight meetings with Columbus.
Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Vancouver Canucks 1/27/24 Betting Picks
Given the current form and historical performances of both teams, the Canucks appear to be the safer bet, especially with their commanding presence at home. The Blue Jackets, while capable of upsets, face an uphill battle against a well-rounded Vancouver team. For those looking to leverage handicapping expertise, considering prop bets on individual performances, especially from the Canucks’ leading scorers, could offer value.
The smarter pick seems to lean towards the Canucks, considering their consistent form and the strength they have shown at home. Betting on the over/under should be approached with caution, given the contrasting trends in the teams’ recent games.
Free Pick and Prediction: Vancouver Canucks 4, Columbus Blue Jackets 2