Detroit Red Wings vs. Columbus Blue Jackets – The 2019 NHL regular season has kicked off, as Detroit Red Wings and Columbus Blue Jackets prepare to face each other in an early-season clash. Both teams currently sit with a record of 1-1-0 and hope for an impressive victory that can provide momentum-shifting wins. Fans and bettors alike look forward to another thrilling game and many seek the best hockey free picks as an aid when placing bets.
Detroit Red Wings vs. Columbus Blue Jackets
Date & Time: Monday, October 16, 2023 at 7:00 PM ET
Location: Nationwide Arena
TV: TBA
Detroit Red Wings vs. Columbus Blue Jackets Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Puckline | Total |
| Red Wings | -111 | -1.5 (+185) | 6.5 over -125 |
| Blue Jackets | -111 | +1.5 (-225) | 6.5 under +100 |
Detroit Red Wings Analysis
Detroit Red Wings’ early season offense has been led by Alex DeBrincat and J.T. Compher, two team leaders with significant offensive firepower. DeBrincat boasts an outstanding shooting percentage of 42.9% which positions him as a prime scoring threat while Compher’s facilitation has allowed DeBrincat to thrive as well. Both forwards should capitalize on any defensive slipups by Columbus Blue Jackets when presented with power play opportunities; additionally, depth in their offensive lines could bring an unpredictable dynamic against Columbus’s defense.
On defense, the Red Wings depend heavily on goaltender Ville Husso. His save percentage in two games stands at an impressive 0.863 but will need to step up his game against an effective Blue Jackets’ offense. Meanwhile, their defensive unit has seen its share of challenges on the road and Nationwide Arena will provide a real test of resilience and ability to support Husso. Jenner and Laine will provide tough test cases of resilience for them both and Husso.
Columbus Blue Jackets Analysis
Columbus Blue Jackets’ offensive unit has shown early promise this season under Boone Jenner. His shooting percentage matches DeBrincat at 42.9%, making him a game-changing threat on any given night. Furthermore, players like Patrik Laine and Kirill Marchenko have contributed indirectly by creating opportunities and recording assists – thus challenging Detroit’s defensive structure and capitalizing on any gaps or mistakes they encounter.
On defense, the Blue Jackets possess an invaluable asset in goaltender Elvis Merzlikins, with his impressive save percentage of 0.95 over their first two games providing them a reliable last line of defense that can thwart many offensive attempts from Detroit Red Wings. Defense skaters in front of Merzlikins must remain cautious of Detroit’s top scorers but can implement more aggressive defensive strategies thanks to him being in top form.
Detroit Red Wings vs. Columbus Blue Jackets Against the Spread
The Red Wings have recently struggled, going 1-6 SU in their last seven games and their road performance doesn’t inspire much confidence, having gone 3-11 SU in 14 away games over that span. When facing Columbus Blue Jackets however, their total has often exceeded in four of five meetings between these teams since January 2018.
On the other hand, Columbus hasn’t exactly been dominant lately with a 3-10 record against their peers (3-0-1 at home in their last 20 home games), though their encounters against Detroit tend to be high scoring and often go OVER (four of their five meetings have gone OVER totals). Furthermore, Columbus has experienced some problems at home recently: 7-13 against their competition since starting this season at home.
Detroit Red Wings vs. Columbus Blue Jackets Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Columbus Blue Jackets -111. Given the home advantage and the recent form of their goaltender, Merzlikins, the Blue Jackets seem to have the edge.
Spread: Columbus Blue Jackets +1.5 (-225). Despite the close matchup, the Blue Jackets’ recent performances and home advantage tilt the balance in their favor.
Total: Over 6.5. Considering the recent history between these two teams, a high-scoring game seems likely.
Predicted Score: Columbus Blue Jackets 4, Detroit Red Wings 3.
At present, both teams appear evenly matched on many fronts; however, Columbus appears to have the edge when considering home advantage and goaltending form. For those looking for an informed bet, Columbus Moneyline appears to be the safest bet – or for an increased betting experience Canadian top live betting offers real-time odds and action!
