Los Angeles Kings vs Columbus Blue Jackets Prediction | NHL 26.01.26

Los Angeles Kings vs Columbus Blue Jackets Game Analysis | 26-01-2026 | NHL

The NHL regular season presents an intriguing matchup on January 26, 2026, as the Los Angeles Kings (21-16-13) travel to Nationwide Arena to face the Columbus Blue Jackets (24-20-7) at 7:00 PM. This contest pits two teams vying for playoff positioning, both exhibiting periods of inconsistency this season.

Los Angeles Kings Team Performance

The Kings arrive with a record that suggests a team capable of competing but struggling to convert close games into regulation wins, as evidenced by their significant number of ties. Their recent form has been a mixed bag, often relying on individual brilliance. The Kings demonstrate a structured defensive system when fully engaged, yet their offensive output can sometimes be streaky. Sustained pressure and capitalizing on power-play opportunities will be critical to their success.

Los Angeles Kings Key Players

• Points: Adrian Kempe (39)
• Goals: Kevin Fiala (18)
• Assists: Adrian Kempe (22)

Injury Report Los Angeles Kings

• Anze Kopitar (Injured reserve): Kopitar (lower body) didn’t skate with the Kings on Thursday, but he will join the team for their upcoming six-game road trip, Dennis Bernstein of The Fourth Period.

The absence of captain Anze Kopitar due to a lower-body injury remains a significant void. While he is slated to join the team on the road trip, his immediate playing status for this game is uncertain, impacting the Kings’ face-off prowess and two-way play. The offensive burden falls heavily on players like Kevin Fiala, leading the team with 18 goals, and Adrian Kempe, who paces the Kings in both points (39) and assists (22), showcasing his crucial all-around contribution.

Columbus Blue Jackets Team Performance

The Columbus Blue Jackets, with a slightly better record, have shown flashes of potential but also periods of vulnerability. Their game is often characterized by a willingness to engage physically and generate offense from the blueline. Consistency in their defensive zone coverage and goaltending performance has been a challenge, leading to a higher number of goals against. To secure a win, Columbus must leverage their home ice advantage and exploit any defensive lapses from the Kings.

Columbus Blue Jackets Key Players

• Points: Zach Werenski (55)
• Goals: Zach Werenski (19)
• Assists: Zach Werenski (36)

Zach Werenski stands out as the Blue Jackets’ undisputed offensive catalyst, leading the team across all major statistical categories with 55 points, 19 goals, and 36 assists. His ability to drive offense from the defense corps is a unique and vital asset for Columbus. Containing Werenski will be a primary focus for the Kings’ defensive strategy.

Prediction: Los Angeles Kings vs Columbus Blue Jackets

Considering the Kings’ deeper forward group, even with Kopitar’s potential absence, and their structured approach, they hold a slight edge. The Blue Jackets rely heavily on Werenski’s offensive production, which, while impressive, can be mitigated by a disciplined defensive effort. Expect a competitive game, but the Los Angeles Kings are predicted to secure the victory. Given both teams’ offensive capabilities and occasional defensive inconsistencies, the total goals prediction is over 6.5.