Columbus Blue Jackets vs Tampa Bay Lightning Prediction 2-10-24 Picks

The Tampa Bay Lightning and Columbus Blue Jackets face off on Saturday in an NHL showdown at Nationwide Arena. Let’s look at the betting matchup and give a free Blue Jackets vs Lightning prediction.

Lightning Defense Looks to Bounce Back 

Lightning faced off against the New York Islanders in the last game and the defense wasn’t great. The Lightning gave up six goals and that led to the four goal defeat. Brandon Hagel had a strong game scoring a goal but he was the only real bright spot. Lightning are averaging 3.4 goals while their defense is giving up 3.33 goals per game. The offense is ranked 9th in the league but the defense has been a real issue, and it’s what has really held them back.

Blue Jackets Coming off a Shutout Victory

The Blue Jackets faced off against the St. Louis Blues in the last game, and they offense only scored one goal, but that was all they needed. Elvis Merzlikins saved all 21 of the shots that he faced. The Blue Jackets are averaging 2.92 goals while their defense is giving up 3.66 goals per game. The defense is ranked 31st overall, so not giving up any goals is even more impressive. Johnny Gaudreau has been the top player for this team scoring seven goals and adding 32 assists so far this season. 

Columbus Blue Jackets Team Facts

• The Blue Jackets have lost each of their last 10 Saturday games.
• The home team has covered the puck line in five of the last six games between the Lightning and Blue Jackets.
• The ‘Over 1.5 Goals Period 2′ market has hit in each of the Blue Jackets’ last nine home games.
• The Blue Jackets have lost the third period in seven of their last eight night games at Nationwide Arena against opponents on a winning streak.

Tampa Bay Lightning Team Facts

• The Lightning have won seven of their last eight night games following a road loss.
• The favorites have covered the puck line in eight of the Lightning’s last nine games.
• The home team has won the second period in eight of the Lightning’s last nine games.
• The ‘Over 1.5 Goals Period 2’ market has hit in 14 of the Lightning’s last 15 night games.

Lightning vs Blue Jackets Betting Prediction

The Lightning are going to get the job done here. The Blue Jackets might have won the last game, but they only scored one goal, and that isn’t going to be enough for them to get the job done here. The Lightning are averaging 3.4 goals and they are going to get the offense going early here. The Blue Jackets aren’t going to keep up, and the Lightning are going to get the job done. Back the Lightning on the money line.