Columbus Blue Jackets vs Chicago Blackhawks Prediction

Columbus Blue Jackets vs Chicago Blackhawks Game Analysis | 30-01-2026 | NHL

On January 30, 2026, the Columbus Blue Jackets (25-20-7) face off against the Chicago Blackhawks (21-24-9) in a regular-season matchup scheduled for 8:30 PM at the United Center in Chicago. This contest pits a Blue Jackets team striving for consistency against a Blackhawks squad looking to build momentum amidst a challenging season.

Columbus Blue Jackets Team Performance

The Columbus Blue Jackets enter this game with a respectable 25-20-7 record, positioning them as a competitive, albeit streaky, team in the Eastern Conference. A remarkable aspect of their performance is the offensive reliance on defenseman Zach Werenski, who leads the team in all major scoring categories. While Werenski’s exceptional two-way play is a significant asset, it also highlights a potential lack of consistent scoring depth from their forward group. Their strength lies in Werenski’s ability to drive play from the blue line and a generally robust defensive structure. However, inconsistent forward production could be a weakness, making them vulnerable against deeper offensive teams.

Columbus Blue Jackets Key Players

Points: Zach Werenski (57)
Goals: Zach Werenski (19)
Assists: Zach Werenski (38)

Chicago Blackhawks Team Performance

The Chicago Blackhawks, with a 21-24-9 record, have endured a season marked by flashes of brilliance from their young stars but an overall struggle for sustained success. Their nine overtime losses indicate an inability to close out tight games, suggesting a need for improved late-game execution and potentially more depth. The Blackhawks’ offense is spearheaded by the dynamic Connor Bedard and the goal-scoring prowess of Tyler Bertuzzi. Their strength lies in the high-end skill of Bedard and the veteran presence of players like Bertuzzi. However, their record points to defensive inconsistencies and a need for greater secondary scoring support.

Chicago Blackhawks Key Players

Points: Connor Bedard (50)
Goals: Tyler Bertuzzi (25)
Assists: Connor Bedard (29)

Injury Report Chicago Blackhawks

Ryan Ellis (Injured reserve): Ellis (back) and his contract have been traded to Chicago from San Jose, along with Jake Furlong and a 2028 fourth-round pick in exchange for Laurent Brossoit, Nolan Allan and a 2028 seventh-round pick Thursday.
Shea Weber (Injured reserve): Injured reserve – long-term

Prediction: Columbus Blue Jackets vs Chicago Blackhawks

Considering the current form and statistical advantages, the Columbus Blue Jackets are predicted to win this matchup. Their slightly better record and the exceptional offensive contribution from Zach Werenski provide a decisive edge. Given the offensive talents on both sides, particularly Werenski for Columbus and Bedard for Chicago, coupled with Chicago’s defensive vulnerabilities, the total goals prediction is over the line of 6.5.

Last 5 Games: CBJ

Form:

WWWLW

VS vs Philadelphia

W 5-3

PTS 25-20-7

GOL Merzlikins

AST Olivier

VS vs Tampa Bay

W 8-5

PTS 24-20-7

GOL Greaves

AST Marchment

VS vs Dallas

W 1-0

PTS 23-20-7

GOL Greaves

AST Greaves

VS vs Ottawa

L 4-1

PTS 22-20-7

GOL Merzlikins

AST Jenner

VS @ Pittsburgh

W 4-3 SO

PTS 22-19-7

GOL Merzlikins

AST Merzlikins

Opponent	Result	Points	Goles	Assists
vs Philadelphia	W 5-3	25-20-7	Merzlikins	Olivier
vs Tampa Bay	W 8-5	24-20-7	Greaves	Marchment
vs Dallas	W 1-0	23-20-7	Greaves	Greaves
vs Ottawa	L 4-1	22-20-7	Merzlikins	Jenner
@ Pittsburgh	W 4-3 SO	22-19-7	Merzlikins	Merzlikins

Last 5 Games: CHI

Form:

LLLLW

VS @ Pittsburgh

L 6-2

PTS 21-24-9

GOL Soderblom

AST Nazar

VS @ Minnesota

L 4-3 SO

PTS 21-23-9

GOL Knight

AST Crevier

VS vs Florida

L 5-1

PTS 21-23-8

GOL Knight

AST Bertuzzi

VS vs Tampa Bay

L 2-1 SO

PTS 21-22-8

GOL Soderblom

AST Soderblom

VS @ Carolina

W 4-3 SO

PTS 21-22-7

GOL Knight

AST Mikheyev

Opponent	Result	Points	Goles	Assists
@ Pittsburgh	L 6-2	21-24-9	Soderblom	Nazar
@ Minnesota	L 4-3 SO	21-23-9	Knight	Crevier
vs Florida	L 5-1	21-23-8	Knight	Bertuzzi
vs Tampa Bay	L 2-1 SO	21-22-8	Soderblom	Soderblom
@ Carolina	W 4-3 SO	21-22-7	Knight	Mikheyev

Columbus Blue Jackets vs Chicago Blackhawks Prediction | NHL 30.01.26