The Grueling Truth - Where Legends Speak / Betting Tips / NHL Columbus Blue Jackets vs Tampa Bay Lightning

NHL Columbus Blue Jackets vs Tampa Bay Lightning: Odds, Tips and Predictions 03-04-25

Hockey Betting Tips · - ·

Mike Goodpaster

TwitterFacebookLinkedIn

Chief Editor

Publish Date: 03/04/2025

Fact checked by: Mark Lewis

The Columbus Blue Jackets are set to face the Tampa Bay Lightning, with both teams aiming to build on their successful seasons. The Blue Jackets currently have a record of 30 wins, 22 losses, and 8 overtime losses. They are on a four-game winning streak, holding the top wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference and trailing the New Jersey Devils by just a few points for the third seed in the Metropolitan Division. Meanwhile, the Lightning have a record of 35 wins, 21 losses, and four overtime losses, placing them third in the Atlantic Division.

Columbus Blue Jackets vs Tampa Bay Lightning

Point Spread: Tampa Bay -1.5
Moneyline Columbus +146
Moneyline Tampa Bay -178
Over/Under 6,5

This promises to be an exciting matchup between two of the top teams in the Eastern Conference. The Lightning will be looking to perform well on their home ice, while the Blue Jackets aim to take control of the game right from the first period, especially given their current winning streak of four games. The Blue Jackets, who average 3.35 goals per game, are expected to score frequently, with Kirill Marchenko, Adam Fantilli, and the rest of the forward unit driving the puck into the offensive zone and creating open shot opportunities through quick passes. Defensively, the Blue Jackets should work to diminish the Lightning’s offensive efforts, with Zach Werenski, Ivan Provorov, and the rest of the defensive team creating turnovers in their own zone and limiting shots on goal. This defensive strategy will allow goaltender Elvis Merzlikins to make crucial saves.

Blue Jackets vs Lightning Moneyline

Moneyline value exists for a MoneyLine bet on both teams, but the Blue Jackets will win this game and the best bet is on the money line. To find the best line, you need accounts with multiple sportsbooks, and we got you covered as we break down the best sports betting app

DraftKings

4.6/5

Tip: Bet Blue Jackets ML

Elvis Merzlikins to play well
Control the neutral zone
Lightning at Home

Bet $5 and Get $200in Bonus Bets Instantly!

Open DraftKings

The best NHL betting sites

To satisfy the ever-growing market of NHL bettors, the best Hockey sportsbooks offer unique user experiences, huge payouts, and fantastic bonuses. Gamers no longer have to go to casinos to find some physical action. Online bookies let you play the game of risk from the comfort of your own home. We hope our guide can point you in the right direction so you can find the best gambling experiences on the internet.

Award

BetMGM Promo

Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win

T&Cs and 21+ apply

Get bonus now

Award

FanDuel Promo

Bet $5 Get $200 in Bonus Bets IF YOU WIN

T&Cs and 21+ apply

Get bonus now

Award

Bet365 Promo

Get $150 in Bonus Bets Win or Lose when you bet $5!

Get bonus now

Subject to meeting qualifying criteria. Minimum wager $5. Minimum odds -500 or greater. $10 minimum deposit. Paid in Bonus Bets. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns. New customers only. Available in app only. Max. prize, game restrictions, time limits and T&Cs apply. Deposit required. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply.Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-Gambler 21+

Award