The Nashville Predators visit the Columbus Blue Jackets in a crucial matchup with playoff implications. Nashville (58 points) looks to clinch their playoff spot while Columbus (43 points) aims to play spoiler.

The Predators enter on a hot streak, winning 4 of their last 6 games including a key victory over Dallas. They've found success with a defensive style, averaging just 2.58 goals per game while allowing 2.75. Goaltender Juuse Saros (19 wins, .930 save percentage) and defenseman Roman Josi (25 assists) lead their strong defensive unit.

Columbus, despite sitting last in the Central Division, has kept games competitive recently despite offensive struggles (2.3 goals per game). Oliver Bjorkstrand leads the team with 15 goals and 24 assists, but scoring depth remains an issue.

Key Matchup Factors:

• Nashville is favored at -170 on the moneyline
• Over/under set at 5.0 goals
• Both teams play low-scoring defensive styles
• One goal could be the difference maker
• Columbus looking to impact playoff race as spoiler

The Predators' recent strong play and playoff motivation makes them favorites, but Columbus' tight defensive game could keep this close. Nashville's defensive system versus Columbus' need for offensive production will likely determine the outcome.

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