Columbus Blue Jackets vs Ottawa Senators Picks and Predictions April 8th 2025

Sens Eye Playoffs as They Visit Blue Jackets in High-Stakes Showdown

It’s do-or-die time for the Ottawa Senators, and the mission is clear: win Tuesday night in Columbus and clinch your first playoff berth in seven long seasons.

Ottawa (42-29-6, 90 points) rolls into this game red-hot, riding a three-game win streak and fresh off back-to-back shutouts. But as they visit the Columbus Blue Jackets (34-33-9, 77 points), the Senators know that nothing’s guaranteed—especially with postseason hopes hanging in the balance.

Let’s break down what’s at stake and what fans can expect from this pivotal matchup.

Ottawa’s Momentum Is Peaking at the Right Time

Coming into this game, Ottawa is finally showing the consistency fans have been hoping for. After seven years without a playoff appearance, this team is looking to turn the page. Their most recent win? A commanding 4-0 shutout over Columbus—on the road.

They’ve shut out two straight opponents, including the Florida Panthers, and boast a shutout streak of 153 minutes and counting. The goaltending duo of Anton Forsberg and Linus Ullmark is locked in, with Ullmark stopping all 30 Columbus shots on Sunday.

Health update: Tkachuk, Cousins travel with team

Captain Brady Tkachuk and forward Nick Cousins were seen skating over the weekend, per TSN, and both will be on the road trip. Tkachuk hasn’t played since March 30 but still leads the team with 29 goals and is third in points (55).

His return—even if only as an emotional spark—could be just what Ottawa needs.

Blue Jackets Falling Behind in the Wild Card Race

Not long ago, Columbus held the top wild-card spot in the East. But since March 1, they’ve gone a rough 4-11-1, including three straight losses. They were outscored 9-0 over the weekend and haven’t found the back of the net in two full games.

At 77 points, with six games left, the Blue Jackets are on life support. They trail the final wild-card spot by eight points, with three teams ahead of them. The math isn’t in their favor, and time is running out.

Werenski leading by example, but cooling off

Zach Werenski has been a bright spot for Columbus. The defenseman has set new career highs with 74 points and 54 assists and matched his career-best 20 goals. But lately, the offense has dried up—no goals since March 4 and only points in three of his last 12 games.

Coach Dean Evason remains optimistic, saying after Sunday’s loss, “We’ve got to believe we can still get on a run.”

From Faceoff to Final Buzzer

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What This Game Means for the Senators

Clinching a playoff spot isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a major milestone. As head coach Travis Green said:

“Everyone lives a good life in the NHL, and that’s nice, but at the end of the day, every person in this league wants a chance to win a Cup. The first step is making the playoffs.”

Ottawa hasn’t been in the postseason since 2017. For a team stacked with young talent and finally coming together at the right time, this game isn’t just another night—it could be the night that changes everything.

Internal Links for NHL Betting Enthusiasts

If you’re tracking the playoff picture and thinking about placing a bet, check out these expert pages from Scores and Stats:

• NHL Pick Page – Smart picks to guide your wagers
• NHL Odds Page – Real-time lines and updates
• NHL Expert Betting Guide – Learn how to bet smarter
• Stanley Cup Odds Predictions – Who’s favored to win it all?

FAQs

Will Brady Tkachuk play in the game against Columbus?
He’s traveling with the team, but it’s not confirmed if he’ll play. Still, his presence could lift team morale.

What’s at stake for the Senators?
A win would secure their first playoff spot since 2017. High stakes, high pressure.

How has Linus Ullmark performed recently?
He’s been outstanding, including a 30-save shutout of Columbus. His career numbers vs. the Blue Jackets are elite.

Can the Blue Jackets still make the playoffs?
Technically, yes. But they need to win out and get help from other teams, which makes the path extremely tough.

What’s wrong with Columbus’ offense?
They’ve been shut out in back-to-back games, with Werenski and other top players going cold at the worst time.

Is this Ottawa’s year to make a playoff run?
If they get in and stay healthy, the Senators could be a tough out. They’re getting hot at the perfect time.