Welcome to another edition of NHL Predictions! In this matchup, the Chicago Blackhawks return home to battle the Columbus Blue Jackets. Each day, our writers here at Last Word On Hockey analyze the day’s games and provide in-depth analysis. We break down the key matchups, storylines, and stats, then make predictions based on how they might play out. Don’t forget to check out more NHL Predictions, as our writers continue this series throughout the 2025-26 season.
NHL Predictions: Chicago Blackhawks vs Columbus Blue Jackets
Time: 8:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)
Head-to-Head: First Meeting of Season
How to Watch TV: NHL Netw0rk, CHSN, FDSN-OH, TVAS
Connor Bedard and the Blackhawks return home to battle Zach Werenski and the surging Columbus Blue Jackets.
Blackhawks Hoping to Forget Performance in Pittsburgh
All the momentum the Hawks seemingly gained over the last five games came crashing down against the Penguins on Thursday night. The Hawks got blown out 6-2 and, aside from the first ten minutes, were thoroughly outplayed. Chicago surrendered four goals in the second period to blow the game wide open. The only offence for the Blackhawks was a first-period goal from Connor Murphy and a third-period marker from Connor Bedard. The lone bright spot was the continued play of Bedard, Frank Nazar and Teuvo Teravainen. Nazar collected two assists, which were the first two points since his return from injury. Arvid Soderblom saw the crease against the Penguins, meaning Spencer Knight will be back between the pipes in this one.
Captain Nick Foligno did not take a shift after the first period, meaning his status for this game is undetermined. Simply put, the Hawks’ effort was embarrassing against the Penguins. The power play generated some chances, but could not capitalize. They were chasing the entire game and surrendered numerous high-danger chances. They will need a complete overhaul in their game to knock off the Jackets. Every game is a must-win from now on if the Hawks want a chance to make the playoffs. A win here would go a long way, but they need a sustained run.
Blue Jackets Rolling Since New Coaching Hire
Head coach Rick Bowness has been behind the bench for seven games, and the Blue Jackets have earned a 6-1-0 record. The team has won three straight and has a different energy since parting ways with Dean Evason. Their most recent victory was a 5-3 defeat over the Flyers on Wednesday night. In that one, Columbus had five different goal scorers, highlighted by two-point performances from Charlie Coyle and Mathieu Olivier. Sean Monahan and Kirill Marchenko, along with Erik Gudbranson, netted the other goals. Defenceman Zach Werenski collected two assists and extended his team-leading point total to 57. Elvis Merzlikins also stopped 24 shots to earn the win.
Werenski and Coyle have been red-hot since Bowness was hired. They have 10 and nine points, respectively, and have been the catalysts for the turnaround. Additionally, some of the Blue Jackets’ young talent has come alive in recent games. Adam Fantilli has six points in his last seven games and is up to 34 on the season. However, after a 24-goal season a year ago, it has been a brutal season for Kent Johnson so far. While he only has five goals thus far, he has four points since Bowness took the helm. He is playing more and is slowly finding his footing. In the net, Jet Greaves has provided good play in his 33 starts. He has a .908 save percentage on the season and has been on fire in his last five starts. Greaves will likely be back in the crease against the Hawks.
As always, check social media before puck drop for lineups and starting goaltender information.
NHL Prediction
Columbus is rolling, but the Hawks should come out with an inspired effort in front of their home fans. Expect them to find a way to pull one out.
Prediction: Hawks win 3-2
Prop Bets
The Hawks are +114 on the moneyline if you’d like to follow our prediction. We like a pair of goal scorers in this one as well: Kirill Marchenko at +195 for Columbus and Tyler Bertuzzi at +230 for Chicago.
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Main Photo: Russell LaBounty-Imagn Images