The Columbus Blue Jackets (30-24-8) are set to face off against the New York Rangers (31-26-6) on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at Madison Square Garden in New York City. This game is crucial for both teams as they aim to improve their standings in the Metropolitan Division and secure a playoff spot.
Columbus Blue Jackets
The Blue Jackets have had a mixed season so far, currently sitting tied for the final wild card spot in the Eastern Conference with the Rangers. They have shown flashes of brilliance but have struggled with consistency. Key players for the Blue Jackets include:
Johnny Gaudreau: Leading the team with 57 points, including 24 goals and 33 assists.
Boone Jenner: Contributing significantly with 55 points, including 20 goals and 35 assists.
Zach Werenski: Adding 43 points, including 15 goals and 28 assists.
Defensively, the Blue Jackets are allowing an average of 2.5 goals per game. Goaltender Elvis Merzlikins has been solid, with a 21-12-5 record, a 2.34 GAA, and a .907 save percentage. However, he has struggled recently, allowing 10 goals on 56 shots over his last two starts.
New York Rangers
The Rangers have had a strong season, currently sitting tied with the Blue Jackets for the final wild card spot in the Eastern Conference. They have been dominant in conference play and have a strong overall record. Key players for the Rangers include:
Artemi Panarin: Leading the team with 26 goals and 64 points. Panarin has been a consistent offensive force for the Rangers.
Adam Fox: Contributing significantly with 43 assists. Fox has been a key player in the Rangers’ recent success.
Jonathan Quick: The goaltender with a solid performance, boasting a 9-5-2 record and a .903 save percentage this season.
Defensively, the Rangers are allowing an average of 3.02 goals per game. They have been effective in their recent games, showcasing their ability to compete at a high level.
Game Insights
Goals/Game: The Blue Jackets are averaging 3.08 goals per game, while the Rangers are averaging 3.03 goals.
Power Play: The Blue Jackets have a 19.9% success rate on the power play, while the Rangers have a 23.0% success rate.
Penalty Kill: The Blue Jackets have an 82.5% success rate on the penalty kill, while the Rangers have an 80.3% success rate.
Injuries and Lineup Changes
Blue Jackets: Erik Gudbranson (upper body) is on Injured Reserve. Sean Monahan (upper body) is on Injured Reserve retroactive to Jan. 7. Kevin Labanc (shoulder) is on Injured Reserve and out for the season. Cole Sillinger is day-to-day with an upper body injury.
Rangers: No significant injuries reported.
Columbus Blue Jackets 6.5
New York Rangers – 135
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Saturday, March 8, 2025
