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Colorado Avalanche vs Columbus Blue Jackets Betting Preview
The Colorado Avalanche continue their strong start to the NHL season as they visit the Columbus Blue Jackets on Thursday night at Nationwide Arena. The Avalanche enter at 3-0-1 after a convincing road win over Buffalo, while Columbus looks to regroup after a frustrating loss to New Jersey. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET on ESPN+.
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Early Season Storylines
Few players have been hotter than Nathan MacKinnon. The Avalanche captain has racked up four goals and four assists across four games, scoring twice in Colorado’s 3-1 victory over the Buffalo Sabres. Coach Jared Bednar praised MacKinnon’s leadership and consistency, saying, “He knows we rely on him to drive our offense, and he’s embraced that.”
Colorado’s top line has found immediate chemistry with Martin Necas, who was acquired from Carolina last season and has matched MacKinnon’s production with eight points. Artturi Lehkonen’s presence in front of the net continues to complement both players’ creativity. The Avalanche’s structure has been equally impressive — they’ve held opponents to one goal in each of their three wins and sit atop the Central Division standings.
The Blue Jackets, meanwhile, are 1-2-0 and still searching for consistency. Despite outshooting New Jersey 16-8 in the opening period of Monday’s 3-2 loss, they couldn’t convert early chances and paid the price late. Coach Dean Evason said the effort was there, but finishing remains the problem. “We’re playing the right way,” he noted, “but we’ve got to find a way to finish.”
Kirill Marchenko has been a bright spot, scoring four goals over his last two games. His quick release and confidence around the crease give Columbus a needed spark. However, the penalty kill remains a concern — the Blue Jackets rank last in the league with just a 50% success rate through 14 short-handed opportunities.
Line Movement and Odds
According to the latest NHL odds, Colorado opened around -164 on the moneyline, with Columbus listed at +137. The puck line favors the Blue Jackets at +1.5 (-183), while the total is set at 6.5 goals (Over -101, Under -122).
The Avalanche have attracted most early action thanks to their dominant start and defensive stability. Bettors leaning toward totals may consider the under, as Colorado has stayed below the number in each of its last three games. For line updates and power ratings, visit the NHL expert betting guide, which provides real-time projections and matchup analytics.
Matchup Breakdown
Colorado Avalanche Outlook
The Avalanche have been firing on all cylinders. They’ve outscored opponents 13-7 while controlling puck possession and limiting high-danger chances. MacKinnon and Necas headline the offense, while the team’s defense — even without Samuel Girard and Jacob MacDonald — has been sharp. Goalie Scott Wedgewood has made 101 saves in four appearances, giving Colorado steady confidence at the back.
Colorado’s ability to dictate tempo has made them a nightmare for opponents. Their transition game, led by Cale Makar and Devon Toews, creates quick-strike opportunities and forces teams into turnovers. If the Avalanche maintain this level of structure and discipline, they can continue their surge toward another playoff push.
Columbus Blue Jackets Outlook
Columbus is still searching for an identity under new coach Dean Evason. The team has shown flashes of brilliance — including a 7-4 win over Minnesota — but has struggled with defensive lapses and special teams inefficiency. Marchenko’s scoring touch has been a highlight, and rookie forward Adam Fantilli continues to show maturity beyond his years.
Defensively, the Blue Jackets have been physical, registering 62 hits and 43 blocks in three games. Goaltending remains a question, however, as the team has surrendered at least three goals in each contest. Columbus will need improved penalty killing and stronger net-front play to challenge a fast Colorado lineup.
For bettors following goaltending matchups, team metrics, and line performance, the NHL picks section provides updated insights and statistical breakdowns.
Key Edge
Colorado’s superior depth and control on both ends of the ice give it a clear advantage. The Avalanche have consistently dictated possession and neutralized opponent power plays, while Columbus has struggled to finish chances and kill penalties. Still, the Blue Jackets’ energy at home could keep this closer than expected if they convert early.
For fans tracking long-term performance, the Pacific Division analysis and Stanley Cup odds projections offer a broader look at how Colorado’s strong start impacts their championship trajectory.
Injuries and Updates
Colorado’s blue line is banged up, with Ronnie Attard, Samuel Girard, and Jacob MacDonald sidelined. Mackenzie Blackwood remains out in goal, and winger Logan O’Connor is also unavailable. For Columbus, Erik Gudbranson is questionable, while Luca Marrelli and Miles Wood are both out.
Updated player statuses and lineup confirmations can be found daily on the ScoresAndStats NHL hub.
Betting Trends
The Avalanche are 3-0 straight up in their last three games and 3-0 against the puck line during that stretch. All three have gone under the total, reflecting their improved defensive consistency. The Blue Jackets are 1-2 overall and 2-1 on the puck line, though defensive breakdowns have been an issue in both losses.
For context across conferences, the Metropolitan Division preview and Conference futures outlook provide comparative performance indicators.
Best Bets and Prediction
Colorado’s depth, goaltending, and momentum make them the superior side entering Thursday’s contest. The Blue Jackets should compete early, but the Avalanche’s precision and transition speed should ultimately prevail.
Projected Score: Colorado Avalanche 4, Columbus Blue Jackets 2
Best Bet: Colorado Avalanche Moneyline (-164)
Secondary Lean: Under 6.5 goals (-122)
Smarter NHL betting starts with sharper insights. Visit ScoresAndStats for the latest NHL betting trends and expert picks, including daily previews and verified handicapper records.
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