Chicago Blackhawks vs Columbus Blue Jackets Betting Pick & Prediction for 2/4

bangthebook nhl game preview

The Chicago Blackhawks visit the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. This regular season NHL game will be broadcast on ESPN+ at 7:00 PM. The Blackhawks have a record of 22-25-9, while the Blue Jackets stand at 28-20-7.

Chicago is led by head coach Jeff Blashill and plays in the Western Central Division. Columbus, coached by Rick Bowness, is part of the Eastern Metropolitan Division. Both teams are looking to improve their standings as the season progresses.

Blackhawks vs Blue Jackets Game Day Info

  • Sport: NHL
  • Teams: Chicago Blackhawks vs Columbus Blue Jackets
  • Venue: Nationwide Arena
  • Date: Wednesday, February 4, 2026
  • Betting Odds: Columbus Blue Jackets MoneyLine -154, Chicago Blackhawks MoneyLine +129

Chicago Blackhawks Team Preview

The Chicago Blackhawks recently defeated the San Jose Sharks 6-3. Ryan Donato and Ilya Mikheyev played key roles in this victory. Donato contributed with two goals and two assists, while Mikheyev added a goal and three assists.

In their previous game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, the Blackhawks lost 4-2. Connor Bedard stood out with a goal and an assist. However, the team struggled to convert opportunities into goals, scoring only twice on 24 shots.

Chicago’s skater stats rank them 21st in goals and 24th in assists for the season. Despite having a solid performance on the power play, ranking 11th, their overall scoring has been inconsistent. Goalie Spencer Knight has made significant contributions, tallying 986 saves in 38 games played.

Columbus Blue Jackets Team Preview

The Columbus Blue Jackets have been strong in their recent games. They secured a 3-0 win against the New Jersey Devils. Elvis Merzlikins stopped all 24 shots for a shutout. Mathieu Olivier was key with two goals.

In the game against the St. Louis Blues, Columbus won 5-3. Their power play scored once, showing effectiveness. Elvis Merzlikins was in net, while Kent Johnson scored and assisted.

Against the Chicago Blackhawks, Columbus won 4-2. Charlie Coyle had a standout performance with three goals. The Blue Jackets also blocked 13 shots, showing solid defense. Elvis Merzlikins made 22 saves.

BTB Betting Pick

The Columbus Blue Jackets are favored to win against the Chicago Blackhawks with a moneyline of -154. The Blackhawks have a moneyline of +129. Given the Blue Jackets’ better stats in goals, assists, and shots on goal, they are likely to win. The projected score is Columbus 4, Chicago 3.

The over/under line for this game is set at 6.5. Both teams have shown the ability to score, with the Blue Jackets ranking higher in goals and assists. Considering these stats, the recommendation is to take the over at 6.5 (+101). The projected total is 7 goals.