The NHL Regular Season kicks off with the Columbus Blue Jackets taking on the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena. Scheduled for Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 8:00 PM, the game will be broadcast on ESPN+. Both teams are eager to set the tone for their season in this opening game.
The Columbus Blue Jackets, led by head coach Dean Evason, are coming off a previous season record of 40-33-9. Despite finishing 9th in the Eastern Conference and 4th in the Eastern Metropolitan Division, they did not make the playoffs last season. With a puck line of -1.5 (-238), they enter this game as the underdogs.
On the other side, the Nashville Predators, coached by Andrew Brunette, finished last season with a 30-44-8 record. They ranked 14th in the Western Conference and 7th in the Western Central Division, also missing out on the playoffs. With a puck line of +1.5 (+192), Nashville is favored to win on their home ice.
Predators vs Blue Jackets At a Glance
- Game Location: Bridgestone Arena, Nashville
- Broadcast: ESPN+
- Columbus Blue Jackets Last Season Record: 40-33-9
- Nashville Predators Last Season Record: 30-44-8
- Odds Favorite: Nashville Predators with MoneyLine -123
- Game Date & Time: Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 8:00 PM
Predators Prepare to Unleash in Season Opener
Key Skaters to Watch
Filip Forsberg stands out as a crucial player for the Nashville Predators, having played all 82 games last season. His 31 goals and 45 assists emphasize his offensive capabilities, supported by 151 hits and 52 blocks. Forsberg’s presence on the ice will be vital for the Predators’ success.
Jonathan Marchessault, with 56 points in 78 games, is another key player for the Predators. His 21 goals and 35 assists highlight his playmaking ability. Marchessault’s contribution in the center position will be crucial as the Predators start their new season.
Defensive Contributions
Roman Josi, the Predators’ star defenseman, played 53 games last season, recording 38 points through 9 goals and 29 assists. His 95 blocks demonstrate his strong defensive abilities, making him a cornerstone for the Predators’ defense.
Ryan O’Reilly, another center, added 53 points in 79 games, showcasing his all-around game. His 72 blocks add a defensive edge to his play, complementing his offensive contributions on the ice.
Goaltending Expectations
Juuse Saros, expected to be the starting goalie, played 58 games last season. With 1426 saves and 4 shutouts, Saros is anticipated to be a key figure between the pipes. His performance will be a determining factor for the Predators in their opening game.
Justus Annunen, another goaltending option, recorded 719 saves in 34 games. Though he secured 15 wins, his consistency will be essential for the Predators, especially if Saros needs support.
Predators Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 1-2 (33.3%)
- SU Last 5: 1-4 (20.0%)
- SU Last 10: 2-8 (20.0%)
- SU All Games: 24-44 (35.3%)
- SU as Favorite: 14-19 (42.4%)
- SU as Underdog: 10-25 (28.6%)
- Puckline Last 3: 1-2 (33.3%)
- Puckline Last 5: 2-3 (40.0%)
- Puckline Last 10: 4-6 (40.0%)
- Puckline All Games: 25-43 (36.8%)
- Puckline as Favorite: 12-21 (36.4%)
- Puckline as Underdog: 13-22 (37.1%)
- O/U Last 3: 2-1 (66.7%)
- O/U Last 5: 2-3 (40.0%)
- O/U Last 10: 3-7 (30.0%)
- O/U All Games: 29-39 (42.6%)
Columbus Blue Jackets Set to Start Season Against Nashville Predators
Top Skaters to Watch
Zach Werenski stands out as a key player for the Columbus Blue Jackets. Last season, he recorded 82 points in 81 games, a testament to his offensive contributions from the blue line. Werenski’s presence will be critical in setting up plays and defending against the Predators’ attacks.
Kirill Marchenko, the right winger, is another significant threat. With 31 goals and 43 assists last season, his ability to find the back of the net is undeniable. His playmaking skills will be essential in creating scoring opportunities.
Sean Monahan, at center, brings experience and skill to the lineup. With 57 points in 54 games last season, his offensive prowess will be vital for the Blue Jackets. Monahan’s leadership will also be crucial in tight game situations.
Rising Stars
Kent Johnson, another center, adds depth to the Blue Jackets’ lineup. With 57 points in 68 games, his development will be something to watch this season. Johnson’s ability to contribute offensively makes him a valuable asset.
Adam Fantilli, a young center, made a strong impact last season with 31 goals. Playing all 82 games, his consistency and physical play, as seen with 113 hits, bring a competitive edge to the team. Fantilli’s performance can set the tone for Columbus this season.
Goaltending Duo
Elvis Merzlikins leads the goaltending duties for the Blue Jackets. Last season, he recorded 26 wins in 53 appearances, showing his capability to handle pressure. Merzlikins’ experience will be key in anchoring the defense.
Jet Greaves, despite fewer appearances, demonstrated solid performances with 7 wins in 11 games. His two shutouts indicate potential for growth. Greaves’ role as a reliable backup will be important as the season progresses.
Columbus Blue Jackets Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 3-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 5: 5-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 10: 7-3 (70.0%)
- SU All Games: 30-33 (47.6%)
- SU as Favorite: 10-1 (90.9%)
- SU as Underdog: 20-32 (38.5%)
- Puckline Last 3: 3-0 (100.0%)
- Puckline Last 5: 5-0 (100.0%)
- Puckline Last 10: 7-3 (70.0%)
- Puckline All Games: 33-30 (52.4%)
- Puckline as Favorite: 11-0 (100.0%)
- Puckline as Underdog: 22-30 (42.3%)
- O/U Last 3: 1-2 (33.3%)
- O/U Last 5: 2-3 (40.0%)
- O/U Last 10: 5-5 (50.0%)
- O/U All Games: 36-27 (57.1%)
Predators vs Blue Jackets Prediction: Columbus Blue Jackets +104
The Columbus Blue Jackets enter their regular season opener after a challenging preseason, finishing with a 2-5-0 record. Despite this, they showed offensive potential with an edge in shot attempts and scoring chances in their final preseason game against the Washington Capitals. With key players like Zach Werenski returning, the Blue Jackets could surprise the Nashville Predators.
The Nashville Predators, on the other hand, struggled throughout last season with a record of 30-44-8 and did not make any major roster improvements in the offseason. Their home record also leaves much to be desired, making them vulnerable even at Bridgestone Arena. Although they are favorites, their recent performance doesn’t inspire confidence.
Considering the Blue Jackets’ offensive stats in preseason and the Predators’ poor performance last season, Columbus looks like a value pick as the underdog at +104. They have the potential to capitalize on Nashville’s weaknesses, especially if they can maintain their preseason offensive pressure.
Expect the Columbus Blue Jackets to edge out the Nashville Predators with a determined effort. A projected final score of 4-2 in favor of Columbus supports this pick, as they aim to start the season with momentum.
- Predators vs Blue Jackets Prediction: Columbus Blue Jackets +104
- Predators vs Blue Jackets Score: Blue Jackets 4 – Predators 2
