The Nashville Predators visit the Columbus Blue Jackets in a crucial matchup with playoff implications. Nashville currently holds the fourth playoff spot in the Central Division with 58 points, while Columbus sits in last place with 43 points.

The Predators enter as -170 favorites, with the over/under set at 5.0 goals. Nashville has won 4 of their last 6 games, including a recent key victory over Dallas.

Team Analysis:

Nashville Predators:

• Playing defensive-minded hockey (2.58 goals for, 2.75 against per game)
• Goalie Juuse Saros: 19 wins, .930 save percentage
• Roman Josi leads with 25 assists
• Recent strong defensive performances, including shutout vs Dallas

Columbus Blue Jackets:

• Struggling offensively (2.3 goals per game)
• Oliver Bjorkstrand leads team with 15 goals, 24 assists
• Only one win in last three weeks
• Keeping games close despite lack of scoring

Key Factors:

• Nashville's slow, defensive style could keep the game tight
• Columbus looking to play spoiler role
• One goal could be the difference maker
• Predators getting healthier at crucial time
• Blue Jackets need offensive breakthrough to compete

The matchup pits Nashville's playoff push against Columbus's spoiler aspirations, with defensive play likely to determine the outcome in what projects to be a low-scoring affair.

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