Columbus vs. Toronto: NHL Match Prediction

Current form

Columbus continues to show mixed results in the NHL regular season. After a poor start and a loss to Minnesota (2:3), the team went to visit Colorado, where they were able to rehabilitate themselves in front of the fans, defeating the clear favorite with a score of 6:4. However, it is worth considering that the Avalanche were in terrible shape at the time and were losing to absolutely everyone. Returning to their home arena, the Jackets again faced a very serious opponent in the person of Florida, which, as expected, they were unable to beat (3:4). This time, goalie Merzlikin did not play his best in goal, reflecting only 81% of the shots.

In the second home game, the Blue Jackets were still able to regain their lost points, beating Buffalo with a score of 6:4. This time, the entire attacking line of the club showed very high efficiency in the attack, it is difficult to even single out any of the players, since many distinguished themselves with successful actions. Then Columbus met with Minnesota and this time all the efficiency of the team suddenly evaporated, which led to the third defeat of the season (1:3). The only goal was scored by the best forward of the team so far, Yegor Chinakhov.

Disqualifications and injuries

Columbus has serious problems in its lineup, which primarily affects the attacking line. Forwards Jenner, Johnson and Voronkov remain in the infirmary. Also, defenseman Erik Gudbransson will definitely not play in the upcoming match.

Interesting trends for betting

• Columbus is allowing an average of 3.6 goals per game.

So far, the Jackets' defense has not been particularly reliable, which allows their opponents to consistently realize their potential in attack.

• The Blue Jackets are averaging 28 shots per game.

The team attacking line also does not play the most active game, which is why it is not possible to compensate for the lapses in defense.

Current form

Toronto started the regular season with a loss to the obvious underdog Montreal, but quickly pulled themselves together and fully rehabilitated themselves before the fans, regaining all their points in full. The team won three victories in a row, all of them by more than one goal. The Leafs left no chance for Los Angeles (6:2), and also easily dealt with New Jersey and Pittsburgh with the same score of 4:2. Indeed, the Maple Leafs' offensive line remains one of the most powerful in the entire league, which they demonstrate in almost every match.

True, in a duel with a more powerful opponent in the person of the Rangers, the club was unable to demonstrate its attacking potential. Toronto made 35 shots on goal, but was able to beat Vasilevskiy only once, which led to the second defeat of the season (1:4). Continuing to play at home, Berube charges defeated Tampa Bay with a score of 5:2. Once again, second-line forward William Nylander showed a magnificent game, scoring twice and also giving an assist. William is currently the team top scorer, with seven points.

Disqualifications and injuries

Looking at the number of injured players on Toronto, you might think there are huge problems with the roster, but that not the case. Most of them are not difference-makers, but it still worth noting that defensemen Klingberg, Hakanpaa and Mermis, as well as forwards Devar and Jarnkrok, will be missing from the upcoming game.

Interesting trends for betting

• The Leafs are averaging 3.3 goals per game.

The club strong point remains its powerful attacking line, which consistently performs from match to match.

• The Maple Leafs converted just 15 percent of their power play attempts.

But when playing with a one-man advantage, the Leafs have often had trouble this season.