Los Angeles Kings vs Columbus Blue Jackets Prediction: Wild Card Hopefuls Clash In Columbus
The Los Angeles Kings head to Ohio on March 9 for a cross-conference meeting with the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena. Both clubs enter the night fighting for positioning as the regular season moves into its final stretch. Columbus has surged up the standings in recent weeks, while Los Angeles continues to search for steady offense during a difficult stretch. Here, I break down this Kings vs Blue Jackets matchup and bring you my prediction in the betting markets.
Pick: Blue Jackets moneyline ATS PRO
Confidence: 4 out of 5
Columbus has been one of the hottest teams in the league during the second half of the season. The Blue Jackets have collected points in 9 of their last 10 games, including several high-scoring outings. During that stretch, the offense has produced over 3 goals per game while consistently generating close to 30 shots each night.
The Kings have had a far different run. Los Angeles has dropped 7 of its last 10 contests and has struggled to convert chances. The team averages only 2.56 goals per game this season, which ranks near the bottom of the league. Even with respectable defensive numbers, the lack of finishing has made it difficult to string wins together.
The projected goaltending battle in this game is between Darcy Kuemper for Los Angeles and Elvis Merzlikins for Columbus. Kuemper has delivered solid numbers with a goals against average around 2.72 and a save percentage near .896. Merzlikins has logged heavy minutes this season, but his 3.53 GAA has been concerning to say the least this year. The Blue Jackets allow more shots than most teams, which could be an issue with Merzlikins in net.
The Kings offense is led by Adrian Kempe, who has produced 23 goals and more than 50 points while firing over 170 shots on goal. Veteran captain Anze Kopitar remains a key playmaker, while young defenseman Brandt Clarke has provided offense from the blue line with over 30 points.
Columbus counters with a deep group led by defenseman Zach Werenski, who has reached 20 goals and over 60 points this season. Kirill Marchenko has also been a major scoring threat with 22 goals and over 50 points, while Adam Fantilli continues to develop as a strong two-way forward.
Score Projection: Los Angeles Kings 2 – Columbus Blue Jackets 4 ATS PRO
Win Probability: Los Angeles Kings 43%, Columbus Blue Jackets 57% ATS PRO
This game features two teams trending in opposite directions. Los Angeles still plays disciplined defense, allowing fewer than 3 goals per game, though the offense has struggled for long stretches. Columbus brings more scoring depth and has been one of the hottest teams in the league during the past several weeks. I expect the Jackets to continue moving in the right direction with a win on home ice here.
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