Blue Jackets vs Panthers Prediction & Odds - 3/20/2025

The Atlantic Division-leading Florida Panthers roll into Nationwide Arena looking to shake off their recent two-game slide, while the host Columbus Blue Jackets aim to halt an ugly four-game losing streak that's pushing them further from playoff contention.

Both teams pack identical 3.19 goals-per-game firepower, but it's their defensive stories that couldn't be more different - Florida's rock-solid 2.71 goals-against average stands in stark contrast to Columbus's leaky defense that's surrendered 15 goals in their last four outings.

The matchup pits Sergei Bobrovsky's steady .906 save percentage against his former team's struggling netminder Elvis Merzlikins as the Panthers face off against the Blue Jackets in what could be a high-scoring affair.

Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Florida Panthers preview

The Florida Panthers head to Nationwide Arena looking to shake off their recent stumbles, with back-to-back losses putting a slight dent in their otherwise stellar season atop the Atlantic Division.

Sam Reinhart and Aleksander Barkov have been lighting it up for Florida, combining for an impressive 51 goals and 83 assists, while the Panthers' rock-solid defense has kept opponents to just 2.71 goals per game.

Columbus finds themselves in a tough spot after dropping four straight, though their dynamic duo of Kirill Marchenko and Kent Johnson has kept them competitive with 46 goals and 61 assists between them.

The goaltending matchup pits veteran Sergei Bobrovsky, who's been a wall for Florida with a 2.51 GAA, against Elvis Merzlikins, who's had his share of struggles with a .896 save percentage.

Keep an eye on Blue Jackets' defenseman Zach Werenski, who's been a bright spot with 20 goals and 49 assists from the blue line, though Columbus' overall defensive woes have seen them give up 15 goals in their last four games.

The Panthers' Gustav Forsling has been quietly dominant on both ends, contributing offensively while anchoring a defense that's been crucial to Florida's success this season.

This matchup at Nationwide Arena has all the makings of a high-scoring affair, with both teams averaging 3.19 goals per game and Columbus particularly vulnerable on the defensive end lately.