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Carolina Hurricanes vs Columbus Blue Jackets Betting Preview
Carolina Hurricanes (15-11-3) host the Columbus Blue Jackets (11-14-5) on Tuesday night in Raleigh. Both teams are looking to snap recent funks, with Carolina finishing a seven-game homestand and Columbus trying to convert high shot totals into goals.
Line Movement and Odds
- Carolina Hurricanes Spread: -1.5
- Columbus Blue Jackets Spread: +1.5
- Total: 6.0
Carolina opened as a home favorite, with totals set near 6 goals. See updated numbers anytime on the NHL Odds page.
Matchup Breakdown
Carolina Hurricanes Outlook
The Hurricanes are 3-3-0 on their homestand, dropping two of their last three including a 4-1 loss to San Jose. Coach Rod Brind’Amour criticized the team’s lack of sharpness, especially with former teammates from the 2006 Stanley Cup squad in attendance. Goaltending remains a question, with Frederik Andersen struggling, Brandon Bussi excelling at 8-1-0, and Pyotr Kochetkov returning from injury. Jordan Staal scored Sunday, moving into fifth place on the franchise’s all-time points list.
Columbus Blue Jackets Outlook
Columbus has lost six of its last eight, including a 2-0 defeat at Washington despite 39 shots. Jet Greaves made 36 saves, ending his nine-game point streak in net. Elvis Merzlikins could start, having won two of three meetings against Carolina last season. Coach Dean Evason praised the team’s compete level but emphasized the need to finish chances. Shayne Gostisbehere has quietly contributed with assists in three straight games.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
Carolina’s goaltending rotation versus Columbus’ finishing struggles is the focal battle. The Hurricanes must avoid defensive lapses and capitalize on depth scoring, while the Blue Jackets need to turn shot volume into goals to stay competitive.
Injuries / Availability
Carolina: All three goalies healthy; Andersen’s form under scrutiny.
Columbus: Full roster available.
Betting Trends
- Carolina is 3-3-0 on its current homestand.
- Columbus has lost six of its last eight games.
- Merzlikins won two of three meetings vs. Carolina last season.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Carolina 3, Columbus 2
- Pick: Columbus +1.5. The Blue Jackets’ shot volume could keep this close.
- Total: Under 6.0. Both teams’ recent scoring struggles point to a lower total.
Expect a tight contest with Carolina’s goaltending decisions looming large and Columbus fighting to convert chances.
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