Predictions Columbus Blue Jackets vs Pittsburgh Penguins | NHL 17.01.26

Columbus Blue Jackets vs Pittsburgh Penguins Game Analysis | 18-01-2026 | NHL

This regular-season matchup sees the Columbus Blue Jackets (21-19-7) face off against the Pittsburgh Penguins (22-14-10) on January 18, 2026, at 12:00 AM EST at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh. Both teams are battling for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference, with the Penguins holding a slight edge in the standings.

Columbus Blue Jackets Team Performance

The Columbus Blue Jackets have shown flashes of potential this season but remain an inconsistent squad, hovering around a .500 record. Their offensive production often relies heavily on individual brilliance rather than sustained team pressure. Defensively, they’ve struggled at times to maintain structure, leading to periods of vulnerability. While they can compete with top teams on any given night, their challenge lies in delivering that performance consistently.

Columbus Blue Jackets Key Players

• Points: Zach Werenski (51)
• Goals: Zach Werenski (18)
• Assists: Zach Werenski (33)

Pittsburgh Penguins Team Performance

The Pittsburgh Penguins, despite their veteran core, continue to demonstrate resilience, boasting a stronger record than their opponents. Their strength lies in their top-tier offensive talent and experience in crucial moments. However, recent performances have sometimes exposed defensive lapses, and they’ve faced challenges maintaining full roster health. Their ability to leverage power-play opportunities will be critical, especially with key absences.

Pittsburgh Penguins Key Players

• Points: Sidney Crosby (51)
• Goals: Sidney Crosby (25)
• Assists: Sidney Crosby (26)

Injury Report Pittsburgh Penguins

• Erik Karlsson (Injured reserve): Karlsson was placed on injured reserve Tuesday with an undisclosed injury, a significant blow to the Penguins’ blueline and power play.
• Caleb Jones (Injured reserve): Jones (lower body) was assigned to AHL Wilkes-Barre/Scranton on Monday for a conditioning loan, indicating he’s nearing a return but not yet game-ready.
• Rutger McGroarty (Injured reserve): McGroarty was diagnosed with a concussion and is out indefinitely, the team announced Wednesday, impacting their forward depth.
• Tanner Howe (Injured reserve): Howe is on injured reserve and not reporting.

Prediction: Columbus Blue Jackets vs Pittsburgh Penguins

Considering the home-ice advantage and the consistent offensive output from Sidney Crosby, the Pittsburgh Penguins are the predicted winner. Despite the critical absence of Erik Karlsson, the Penguins’ veteran leadership and overall depth should be enough to overcome the Blue Jackets. Given the offensive firepower on both sides, particularly with Werenski’s contributions for Columbus and the Penguins’ top forwards, the total goals prediction is over the line of 6.5.