Columbus Blue Jackets Stats, Analysis, Schedule & More

The Columbus Blue Jackets joined the NHL in 2000 and they’ve yet to win a division title. The Blue Jackets have made six appearances Columbus Blue Jackets Stats, Analysis, Schedule & More

The Blue Jackets have had a rough couple of years, finishing last in the Metropolitan Division since 2022. 
On this page, we’ll dive into the Columbus Blue Jackets stats, history, roster insights, and betting outlooks to help you make informed wagers this season. 

Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or just starting out, this guide will provide the analysis and trends you need to gain an edge. With in-depth reviews of their performance and predictions for the current season, you’ll be fully equipped to profit from Blue Jackets games. Let’s get started!

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Columbus Blue Jackets Betting Odds and Picks

Here’s a look at some of our current Blue Jackets picks:

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Columbus Blue Jackets History

The Columbus Blue Jackets entered the NHL as an expansion team in the 2000-01 season, aiming to bring professional hockey to the heart of Ohio. Despite early struggles common for expansion franchises, the Blue Jackets cultivated a passionate fanbase in Columbus, known for its commitment to hockey and game-day enthusiasm. Their first decade in the league was characterized by growing pains, but it laid the groundwork for a bright future.

The franchise reached its first milestone in the 2008-09 season, qualifying for the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time. Although they were swept by the Detroit Red Wings in the first round, it marked a turning point for the organization. Over the years, the Blue Jackets became known for their gritty style of play and strong defensive focus, a reflection of their Midwest roots.

In recent years, the Blue Jackets have solidified themselves as a competitive team, highlighted by their historic 2019 playoff upset of the Tampa Bay Lightning. That season showcased their ability to compete with top-tier teams, and the victory remains one of the franchise’s greatest moments. While still in pursuit of their first Stanley Cup, the Blue Jackets have demonstrated resilience and a promising future with their young core and strategic acquisitions.

Columbus Blue Jackets Timeline

  • 2000: Columbus Blue Jackets are officially established as an NHL expansion team.
  • 2000-01: The team plays its inaugural season, finishing with a 28-39-9-6 record.
  • 2008-09: Columbus qualifies for the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time in franchise history.
  • 2012: Rick Nash, the franchise’s all-time leading scorer, is traded to the New York Rangers.
  • 2013: Sergei Bobrovsky wins the Vezina Trophy, marking a high point for Blue Jackets goaltending.
  • 2014: Columbus wins its first-ever playoff game against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
  • 2017: The team sets a franchise record with a 16-game winning streak.
  • 2019: Columbus stuns the NHL by sweeping the Tampa Bay Lightning in the first round of the playoffs.
  • 2020: The Blue Jackets advance to the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
  • 2021: Long-time head coach John Tortorella departs after six seasons with the team.
  • 2022: Columbus acquires Johnny Gaudreau, one of the top free agents, signaling their commitment to building a contender.
  • 2024: The Blue Jackets enter the 2024-25 season with a revamped roster and playoff aspirations.

Columbus Blue Jackets Stats

The 2024-25 season has been a mixed bag for the Columbus Blue Jackets. As of mid-season, they rank 25th in overall standings, reflecting struggles with consistency. Offensively, they’ve shown promise, averaging 31.2 shots per game, which ranks in the league’s top half. However, converting those opportunities into goals remains a challenge, with a goals-per-game average of 2.7.

On the defensive side, goaltending has been a concern, with a team save percentage of .895, placing them near the bottom of the NHL. Penalty killing has been another area needing improvement, as they rank 28th in penalty-kill percentage. However, their power play is a bright spot, converting at an impressive 22.4%.

Columbus Blue Jackets Roster for 2024-2025

The Blue Jackets’ roster this season showcases a mix of veteran leadership and young talent. Johnny Gaudreau and Patrik Laine continue to be offensive focal points, providing scoring and playmaking prowess. On defense, Zach Werenski anchors the blue line with his two-way capabilities, while young players like Kent Johnson bring energy and skill.

Rookies have also stepped up, with Adam Fantilli, the third overall pick in the 2023 draft, making an immediate impact. On the other hand, goaltending struggles have plagued Elvis Merzlikins and Daniil Tarasov, highlighting the need for better netminding consistency to push the team forward.

Columbus Blue Jackets Injury Report

Injuries have hampered the Blue Jackets’ performance this season, with Zach Werenski missing significant time due to a lower-body injury. Key absences have disrupted their defensive structure and forced younger players into larger roles, impacting overall consistency.

If you want to learn more about how injuries have impacted the Blue Jackets performance, check out our comprehensive injury report page:

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Get the latest Columbus Blue Jackets injury updates here at ScoresandStats.com. With this report you’ll gain valuable betting insights for this season. For more betting advice you can also sign up and view even more information.

Columbus Blue Jackets Betting Outlook and Trends

The Blue Jackets offer intriguing betting opportunities, with trends developing both at home and on the road. By identifying patterns in their play style and performance, bettors can find value in various markets. Here are some of the trends we’ve noticed so far this season:

High-Scoring First Periods

The Columbus Blue Jackets have developed a reputation for fast starts, often pushing the pace early in games. This trend is particularly noticeable in their first-period goal totals, where they rank among the NHL’s top teams for combined goals scored and allowed in the opening 20 minutes. Their offensive aggressiveness is driven by players like Johnny Gaudreau and Patrik Laine, who excel in creating early scoring chances.

For bettors, the over on first-period goal totals (often set at 1.5 goals) can be an excellent play, especially when the Blue Jackets face teams with similar high-tempo strategies or weaker goaltending. Watch for matchups against teams with shaky defensive starts, as these can amplify the first-period scoring potential.

Home Ice Advantage

Nationwide Arena has become a tough place for opponents to play, with the Blue Jackets posting a winning percentage above 58% at home this season. They feed off the energy of their home crowd, translating it into improved performances, particularly against divisional rivals or marquee opponents. Their defensive metrics, including fewer goals allowed per game, also improve significantly at home.

Bettors should consider the Blue Jackets on the moneyline or puck line when they play at home, especially as underdogs. These games often present strong value since Columbus tends to elevate their game in front of their fans, even against heavily favored opponents.

Underdog Upsets

The Blue Jackets have proven themselves capable of punching above their weight, particularly against elite teams. In the 2024-25 season, they’ve already recorded several surprise victories over playoff contenders, showcasing their ability to capitalize on opponents underestimating them. Their youthful energy, paired with standout performances from players like Kirill Marchenko, makes them a dangerous underdog.

This trend is particularly valuable for bettors looking to exploit moneyline odds. Target games where Columbus is a heavy underdog but has factors working in their favor, such as facing a team on the second night of a back-to-back or exploiting matchups against backup goaltenders.

Special Teams Strengths

While the Blue Jackets have struggled in some areas, their power play has been a bright spot, converting at a rate of over 22%. Players like Zach Werenski and Johnny Gaudreau thrive on the man advantage, generating high-quality chances and capitalizing on opposing teams’ penalties. On the flip side, their penalty kill has been a vulnerability, ranking near the bottom of the league.

Bettors can use this trend in two ways:

  • Look for games where Columbus faces a team that takes frequent penalties, as this increases the likelihood of power-play success.
  • Bet on overs in games featuring two teams with strong power plays or weak penalty kills, as these can turn into high-scoring affairs.

Betting Trends from Last Season

Here are some of the trends our handicappers used last season to make profit betting on the Blue Jackets:

  • Low-Scoring Games: The Blue Jackets were involved in numerous games hitting the under, driven by goaltending-focused strategies and limited scoring depth. Bettors who consistently bet the under profited throughout the season.
  • Overtime Results: Columbus played in an unusually high number of overtime games, making the “Game to Go to Overtime” prop a popular and profitable choice for bettors.
  • Player Props on Johnny Gaudreau: Gaudreau’s assist totals were a standout last season, making “Over on Assists” props a reliable option.

Columbus Blue Jackets Schedule

Don’t miss a single Columbus Blue Jackets game this season:

Pre Season

Week Date Opponent Result
Week 1 Date: Mon 23/09/2024 Opponent: Buffalo Sabres Result: L 1-6
Week 1 Date: Wed 25/09/2024 Opponent: St. Louis Blues Result: W 3-0
Week 1 Date: Fri 27/09/2024 Opponent: Washington Capitals Result: W 8-4
Week 1 Date: Sat 28/09/2024 Opponent: Buffalo Sabres Result: W 6-3
Week 2 Date: Mon 30/09/2024 Opponent: Washington Capitals Result: L 2-3
Week 2 Date: Tue 01/10/2024 Opponent: St. Louis Blues Result: W 3-1
Week 2 Date: Thu 03/10/2024 Opponent: Pittsburgh Penguins Result: L 1-3
Week 2 Date: Fri 04/10/2024 Opponent: Pittsburgh Penguins Result: L 3-7
Week 3 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 4 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 5 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 6 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 7 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 8 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 9 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 10 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 11 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 12 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 13 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 14 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE

Regular Season

Week Date Opponent Result
Week 1 Date: Thu 10/10/2024 Opponent: Minnesota Wild Result: L 2-3
Week 1 Date: Sat 12/10/2024 Opponent: Colorado Avalanche Result: W 6-4
Week 2 Date: Tue 15/10/2024 Opponent: Florida Panthers Result: L 3-4
Week 2 Date: Thu 17/10/2024 Opponent: Buffalo Sabres Result: W 6-4
Week 2 Date: Sat 19/10/2024 Opponent: Minnesota Wild Result: L 1-3
Week 3 Date: Tue 22/10/2024 Opponent: Toronto Maple Leafs Result: W 6-2
Week 3 Date: Sat 26/10/2024 Opponent: Nashville Predators Result: L 3-4
Week 4 Date: Mon 28/10/2024 Opponent: Edmonton Oilers Result: W 6-1
Week 4 Date: Wed 30/10/2024 Opponent: NY Islanders Result: W 2-0
Week 4 Date: Fri 01/11/2024 Opponent: Winnipeg Jets Result: L 2-6
Week 4 Date: Sat 02/11/2024 Opponent: Washington Capitals Result: L 2-7
Week 5 Date: Tue 05/11/2024 Opponent: San Jose Sharks Result: L 1-2
Week 5 Date: Sat 09/11/2024 Opponent: Los Angeles Kings Result: L 2-5
Week 5 Date: Sun 10/11/2024 Opponent: Anaheim Ducks Result: L 2-4
Week 6 Date: Tue 12/11/2024 Opponent: Seattle Kraken Result: L 2-5
Week 6 Date: Fri 15/11/2024 Opponent: Pittsburgh Penguins Result: W 6-2
Week 6 Date: Sat 16/11/2024 Opponent: Montreal Canadiens Result: L 1-5
Week 7 Date: Mon 18/11/2024 Opponent: Boston Bruins Result: W 5-1
Week 7 Date: Thu 21/11/2024 Opponent: Tampa Bay Lightning Result: W 7-6
Week 7 Date: Sat 23/11/2024 Opponent: Carolina Hurricanes Result: T 4-4
Week 8 Date: Wed 27/11/2024 Opponent: Montreal Canadiens Result: L 3-4
Week 8 Date: Fri 29/11/2024 Opponent: Calgary Flames Result: W 5-2
Week 8 Date: Sun 01/12/2024 Opponent: Chicago Blackhawks Result: W 6-3
Week 9 Date: Tue 03/12/2024 Opponent: Calgary Flames Result: L 0-3
Week 9 Date: Thu 05/12/2024 Opponent: Edmonton Oilers Result: L 3-6
Week 9 Date: Fri 06/12/2024 Opponent: Vancouver Canucks Result: L 2-5
Week 9 Date: Sun 08/12/2024 Opponent: Winnipeg Jets Result: W 4-1
Week 10 Date: Tue 10/12/2024 Opponent: Philadelphia Flyers Result: L 3-5
Week 10 Date: Thu 12/12/2024 Opponent: Washington Capitals Result: L 1-2
Week 10 Date: Sat 14/12/2024 Opponent: Anaheim Ducks Result: L 3-4
Week 10 Date: Sun 15/12/2024 Opponent: Carolina Hurricanes Result: L 1-4
Week 11 Date: Tue 17/12/2024 Opponent: Tampa Bay Lightning Result: L 3-5
Week 11 Date: Thu 19/12/2024 Opponent: New Jersey Devils Result: W 4-2
Week 11 Date: Sat 21/12/2024 Opponent: Philadelphia Flyers Result: L 4-5
Week 12 Date: Mon 23/12/2024 Opponent: Montreal Canadiens Result: W 5-4
Week 12 Date: Fri 27/12/2024 Opponent: Boston Bruins Result: W 6-2
Week 12 Date: Sat 28/12/2024 Opponent: Boston Bruins Result: L 0-4
Week 13 Date: Thu 02/01/2025 Opponent: Detroit Red Wings Result: L 4-5
Week 13 Date: Sat 04/01/2025 Opponent: St. Louis Blues Result: W 6-4
Week 14 Date: Tue 07/01/2025 Opponent: Pittsburgh Penguins Result: T 3-3
Week 14 Date: Thu 09/01/2025 Opponent: Seattle Kraken Result: W 6-2
Week 14 Date: Sat 11/01/2025 Opponent: St. Louis Blues Result: W 2-1
Week 15 Date: Tue 14/01/2025 Opponent: Philadelphia Flyers Result: T 2-2
Week 15 Date: Thu 16/01/2025 Opponent: San Jose Sharks Result: W 4-1
Week 15 Date: Sat 18/01/2025 Opponent: NY Rangers Result: L 0-1
Week 16 Date: Mon 20/01/2025 Opponent: NY Islanders Result: L 1-3
Week 16 Date: Wed 22/01/2025 Opponent: Toronto Maple Leafs Result: W 5-1
Week 16 Date: Thu 23/01/2025 Opponent: Carolina Hurricanes Result: L 4-7
Week 16 Date: Sat 25/01/2025 Opponent: Los Angeles Kings Result: W 3-2
Week 17 Date: Thu 30/01/2025 Opponent: Vegas Golden Knights Result: W 2-1
Week 17 Date: Fri 31/01/2025 Opponent: Utah Hockey Club Result: W 3-2
Week 17 Date: Sun 02/02/2025 Opponent: Dallas Stars Result: L 3-5
Week 18 Date: Tue 04/02/2025 Opponent: Buffalo Sabres Result: L 2-3
Week 18 Date: Thu 06/02/2025 Opponent: Utah Hockey Club Result: L 2-3
Week 18 Date: Sat 08/02/2025 Opponent: NY Rangers Result: L 3-4
Week 19 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 20 Date: Sat 22/02/2025 Opponent: Chicago Blackhawks Result: W 5-1
Week 21 Date: Tue 25/02/2025 Opponent: Dallas Stars Result: W 6-4
Week 21 Date: Thu 27/02/2025 Opponent: Detroit Red Wings Result: W 5-2
Week 21 Date: Sat 01/03/2025 Opponent: Detroit Red Wings Result: W 5-3
Week 22 Date: Tue 04/03/2025 Opponent: Tampa Bay Lightning Result: L 2-6
Week 22 Date: Thu 06/03/2025 Opponent: Florida Panthers Result: L 0-3
Week 22 Date: Sun 09/03/2025 Opponent: NY Rangers Result: W 7-3
Week 23 Date: Tue 11/03/2025 Opponent: New Jersey Devils Result: L 3-5
Week 23 Date: Thu 13/03/2025 Opponent: Vegas Golden Knights Result: L 0-4
Week 23 Date: Sat 15/03/2025 Opponent: NY Rangers Result: L 0-4
Week 24 Date: Mon 17/03/2025 Opponent: New Jersey Devils Result: L 1-2
Week 24 Date: Thu 20/03/2025 Opponent: Florida Panthers Result: L 0-1
Week 24 Date: Fri 21/03/2025 Opponent: Pittsburgh Penguins Result: L 3-6
Week 25 Date: Mon 24/03/2025 Opponent: NY Islanders Result: T 3-3
Week 25 Date: Fri 28/03/2025 Opponent: Vancouver Canucks Result: T 6-6
Week 25 Date: Sat 29/03/2025 Opponent: Ottawa Senators Result: L 2-3
Week 26 Date: Tue 01/04/2025 Opponent: Nashville Predators Result: TBD
Week 26 Date: Thu 03/04/2025 Opponent: Colorado Avalanche Result: TBD
Week 26 Date: Sat 05/04/2025 Opponent: Toronto Maple Leafs Result: TBD
Week 26 Date: Sun 06/04/2025 Opponent: Ottawa Senators Result: TBD
Week 27 Date: Tue 08/04/2025 Opponent: Ottawa Senators Result: TBD
Week 27 Date: Thu 10/04/2025 Opponent: Buffalo Sabres Result: TBD
Week 27 Date: Sat 12/04/2025 Opponent: Washington Capitals Result: TBD
Week 27 Date: Sun 13/04/2025 Opponent: Washington Capitals Result: TBD
Week 28 Date: Tue 15/04/2025 Opponent: Philadelphia Flyers Result: TBD
Week 28 Date: Thu 17/04/2025 Opponent: NY Islanders Result: TBD
Week 29 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 30 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 31 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 32 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 33 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 34 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 35 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 36 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 37 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 38 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 39 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 40 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 41 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 42 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 43 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 44 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 45 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 46 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 47 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 48 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 49 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 50 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 51 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 52 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 53 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 54 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 55 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 56 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 57 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 58 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 59 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 60 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 61 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 62 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 63 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 64 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE

Key Players for Betting on the Columbus Blue Jackets

One of the best ways to make money betting on the Blue Jackets is to wager player props. These props don’t require the Blue Jackets to win (which is an issue for them). Focus on these core players in the 2024-25 season:

Elvis Merzlikins (Goaltender)

Elvis Merzlikins is a pivotal player for the Columbus Blue Jackets, but his season has been marred by inconsistency. When he’s on his game, Merzlikins can steal wins with his athleticism and quick reflexes, making him a formidable presence in net. However, his save percentage this season has hovered around .895, exposing defensive gaps and struggles with rebound control. 

For bettors, Merzlikins is worth considering in games against high-shot-volume teams, where he tends to post strong save totals. Betting on props like total saves can offer value, especially when facing teams with weaker shooting accuracy.

Daniil Tarasov (Goaltender)

As the backup goaltender, Daniil Tarasov has had limited opportunities to shine but has shown flashes of potential. His youth and inexperience mean he’s more prone to lapses in consistency, especially in high-pressure situations or back-to-back scenarios. 

However, Tarasov’s size and positioning give him an edge, allowing him to keep games closer than expected. Bettors should be cautious when he’s in net, as games featuring Tarasov often lean toward higher goal totals due to defensive breakdowns. Betting the over on goals in games he starts can be a profitable strategy, particularly against teams with potent offenses.

Zach Werenski (Defenseman)

Zach Werenski is the backbone of the Blue Jackets’ defense and a key contributor on special teams. His ability to move the puck, quarterback the power play, and contribute offensively makes him a versatile asset. Werenski consistently logs heavy minutes, often exceeding 25 minutes per game, which provides ample opportunities for bettors to target props like shots on goal, power-play points, or blocked shots. 

Despite missing some time due to injuries this season, Werenski’s return has bolstered Columbus’s defensive and offensive balance, making him a reliable bet for individual stat categories in competitive matchups.

Kirill Marchenko (Forward)

Kirill Marchenko has emerged as a rising star for the Blue Jackets, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess and creativity in the offensive zone. His ability to find open spaces and convert scoring opportunities has made him a consistent threat, especially against teams with shaky defensive structures. 

Marchenko is a strong candidate for goal-scoring props, particularly in games against opponents with high goals-against averages. His knack for stepping up in critical moments also makes him an attractive option for live betting markets, where bettors can capitalize on his clutch performances.

Sean Monahan (Forward)

Sean Monahan brings veteran leadership and a playmaking edge to the Blue Jackets’ lineup. Known for his hockey IQ and ability to find teammates in scoring positions, Monahan has become a key player in driving secondary scoring. While he may not post flashy numbers, his consistency makes him a valuable target for assist props, especially in games where Columbus’ power play is expected to be active. 

Bettors should also watch for Monahan in matchups against his former teams or rivals, as he often elevates his game in these situations, providing potential value in both points and goal-scoring markets.

Columbus Blue Jackets Summary

The Columbus Blue Jackets present unique opportunities for NHL bettors, combining moments of brilliance with areas in need of improvement. From emerging trends like high-scoring first periods to key players like Werenski and Gaudreau driving team performance, there’s no shortage of angles to explore.

If you’re looking to elevate your betting strategy, signing up for a handicapper service like Scores and Stats.com is a game-changer. With expert picks, trend analysis, and a wealth of betting insights, you’ll stay ahead of the curve and maximize your betting potential. Don’t just watch the Blue Jackets this season—profit from them!