Blue Jackets and Wild Set for Clash in Columbus
TBD / Columbus Blue Jackets
Thursday 13th March 2025 / 8:29am EDT
The Columbus Blue Jackets (11-7-3) return home tonight to take on the Minnesota Wild (10-9-1) in what promises to be a tightly contested battle at Nationwide Arena. With both teams looking to gain momentum in their respective conferences, special teams and goaltending could play a crucial role in the outcome.
Columbus: Building on Recent Success
The Blue Jackets enter the matchup riding a strong stretch of play, going 9-0-1 in their last ten games. Their ability to win tight contests has been a major factor in their rise up the Eastern Conference standings. Leading the charge offensively is Adrian Kempe, who has posted 12 goals and 11 assists through 21 games, while Jimmy Vesey and James van Riemsdyk continue to provide depth scoring.
In net, Thatcher Demko has been a stabilizing presence with a .908 save percentage across 15 appearances. If he gets the start tonight, Columbus will rely on him to neutralize Minnesota’s high-powered forwards.
Minnesota: Looking for a Bounce-Back Performance
The Wild come into this game having lost their previous outing, but they remain a dangerous squad with J.T. Miller (12G, 10A) and Jack Eichel (11G, 8A) leading the way offensively. Minnesota has been solid defensively, allowing just 55 goals this season, thanks in part to strong goaltending from Maxim Mayorov (.918 SV%) and Charlie Lindgren (.909 SV%).
However, their power play has struggled at just 14.71%, compared to Columbus' more efficient 23.94% conversion rate. If Minnesota can generate quality chances with the man advantage, they could keep pace with the Blue Jackets in what is expected to be a close game.
Prediction: Columbus Has the Edge at Home
With Columbus playing at home and boasting a more effective power play, they appear to have the slight edge heading into this matchup. However, if Minnesota’s goaltending stands tall and their offensive stars produce, they could steal a win on the road. Expect a hard-fought game, with Columbus prevailing 3-2 in a close contest.