Dallas Stars vs Columbus Blue Jackets Prediction | NHL 22.01.26

This regular-season matchup on January 22, 2026, pits the formidable Dallas Stars (28-13-9) against the struggling Columbus Blue Jackets (22-20-7) at Nationwide Arena. The Stars, a dominant force in the Western Conference, arrive with a strong record, while the Blue Jackets are battling for consistency in the Eastern Conference, seeking to improve their standing.

The Dallas Stars have established themselves as a top-tier contender, boasting an impressive 28-13-9 record. Their success is built on a potent blend of offensive firepower and stingy defense. The Stars exhibit exceptional puck control and transition play, often overwhelming opponents with their depth. Goaltending, anchored by Jake Oettinger, provides a reliable last line of defense, contributing to their low goals-against average. While their power play can be streaky, their five-on-five play and ability to shut down opposing offenses remain key strengths.

The Columbus Blue Jackets, with a 22-20-7 record, have endured an inconsistent season marked by flashes of potential alongside periods of struggle. Their young core, including Adam Fantilli, shows promise, but the team often lacks the sustained offensive pressure needed to compete with top clubs. Defensive breakdowns and inconsistent goaltending from Elvis Merzlikins have been persistent issues. While they can play a physical game and capitalize on turnovers, their overall team defense and secondary scoring have hindered their ability to climb the standings, placing significant offensive reliance on Zach Werenski.

Considering the significant disparity in team performance and overall roster strength, the Dallas Stars are predicted to emerge victorious in this contest. With their robust defense, elite goaltending, and a more consistent offensive attack, they are well-positioned to control the pace of play. Given Columbus’s struggles to generate consistent offense and Dallas’s ability to lock down defensively, the total goals are predicted to be under 6.5.