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Devils vs Blue Jackets Betting Preview
The New Jersey Devils wrap up a three-game road trip when they visit the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena on Monday, October 13, 2025. Both teams sit at 1-1-0, making this an early divisional test in the Metropolitan. The puck drops at 7:00 PM ET on ESPN+.
New Jersey rebounded from a sluggish opener in Carolina with a 5-3 win over Tampa Bay. Connor Brown scored twice, while Nico Hischier and Timo Meier each added a goal and assist. The Devils jumped to a 3-0 lead before holding off a Lightning push late. Coach Sheldon Keefe liked his team’s composure, saying they “dug in” and controlled the pace through all three zones.
Columbus comes in off a 7-4 win against Minnesota, powered by Kirill Marchenko’s hat trick and Boone Jenner’s milestone 200th career goal. Elvis Merzlikins stole the show with 48 saves, keeping the Jackets in control despite heavy penalty minutes. Head coach Dean Evason praised his team’s poise, calling it a “mature win” for a group still finding its rhythm.
Both teams enter confident, with contrasting strengths — New Jersey’s speed and structure versus Columbus’ physicality and shot volume.
Line Movement and Odds
Oddsmakers opened the New Jersey Devils as -135 moneyline favorites, while the Columbus Blue Jackets sit at +114. The total is set at 6.0 goals, leaning slightly toward the under at -115.
Early betting trends favor New Jersey. The Devils’ quick-strike offense and efficient power play have drawn sharp money on the road, while Columbus’ high-scoring win over Minnesota has pushed public action toward the over.
Totals bettors are split. The Devils have averaged 4.0 goals per game through two contests, while the Blue Jackets’ 7-goal burst inflated their recent averages. Expect line movement near puck drop depending on confirmed goaltenders.
For real-time market shifts and updated totals, visit the NHL odds page.
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Matchup Breakdown
New Jersey Devils Outlook
The Devils are showing more of their expected pace after a rough opener. Their 5-3 win over Tampa Bay featured scoring across all four lines, led by Connor Brown’s two goals and Nico Hischier’s two-way performance. Through two games, New Jersey has totaled eight goals and 13 assists, driven by strong puck movement and balanced zone entries.
Defensively, the Devils have improved their pressure at the blue line, recording 52 hits and 43 blocks so far. Goalie Jacob Markstrom has stabilized the crease with 41 saves across two starts. The team’s special teams are trending upward as well, converting on one-third of their power-play chances.
Columbus Blue Jackets Outlook
Columbus arrives home after an emotional road split. Their 7-4 win over Minnesota highlighted their offensive upside, with Kirill Marchenko’s hat trick and Boone Jenner’s milestone 200th goal setting the tone. Zach Werenski continues to anchor the blue line, while rookie Adam Fantilli’s playmaking adds a new dynamic down the middle.
The Blue Jackets’ challenge lies in discipline. They surrendered eight power plays in their last game — a number that could hurt against a fast, transition-heavy Devils team. Still, their forecheck and net-front pressure can tilt momentum quickly, especially in front of their home crowd.
For extended lineup analysis, situational trends, and goaltender metrics, visit the Expert NHL Betting Guide.
Injuries and Lineup Notes
The Devils remain without forward Evgenii Dadonov, who suffered a fractured hand while blocking a shot in the opener. Ondrej Palat is listed as day-to-day and could return later in the week. Goaltender Jacob Markstrom is expected to start again, with Nico Daws available as backup.
Columbus will monitor defenseman Erik Gudbranson, who’s questionable with a lower-body injury, while forward Jordan Dumais remains sidelined. Elvis Merzlikins will likely start again after his 48-save performance, though backup Daniil Tarasov could see his first action soon.
For the latest lineup updates and full injury statuses, check the New Jersey Devils injury report and the Columbus Blue Jackets injury report before placing your bets.
Best Bets and Prediction
Both teams enter with momentum on offense, but the Devils have looked more structured through two games. Their transition speed and power-play efficiency give them an edge against a Blue Jackets team still adjusting defensively.
Columbus can keep this close at home if their forecheck disrupts New Jersey’s zone exits, but the Devils’ puck movement and balance across four lines make them the more reliable pick. Expect chances both ways and another high-event game.
Projected Score: Devils 4, Blue Jackets 3
Best Bet: Over 6.0 Goals (-106)
Lean: Devils Moneyline (-135)
See more expert projections and consensus plays for tonight’s slate on the Free NHL Picks page.
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Handicappers and Betting Insights
Looking for more context before placing your bets? Track every verified expert pick and performance streak on the Best Handicappers Leaderboard. You can also see which NHL experts are dominating this week on the Best Handicappers page.
For deeper betting analysis, line movement studies, and situational angles, visit the Expert NHL Betting Guide. It breaks down rest trends, travel splits, and power-play matchups that influence game outcomes.
Before locking in your picks, compare updated lines and totals using the live NHL odds page.
