...
...
Read Article
Blue Jackets vs. Blackhawks prediction: Why Columbus is favored to win Friday's NHL matchup [1/30/2026]
Updated: | First published:
Written by Jason Bevilacqua, Head of Content and Communities
Get Columbus Blue Jackets vs Chicago Blackhawks predictions for NHL Friday.
The Chicago Blackhawks and Columbus bluejackets are scheduled to meet in the NHL at United Center on Friday, with puck drop at 8:30 PM ET.
Based on updated simulations, Dimers' proven NHL model projects the Blue Jackets as the most likely winner of the Blue Jackets vs. Blackhawks game.
This article offers an expanded analysis of Friday's matchup, including projected goal scorers, best bets and player prop picks.
Blue Jackets vs. Hawks prediction: Who will win and cover?
Using innovative machine learning and data analysis, we have simulated the result of Friday's NHL game between the Blue Jackets and Blackhawks 10,000 times as part of our NHL predictions coverage.
Our independent predictive model gives the Blue Jackets a 57% chance of defeating the Blackhawks.
According to our model, the Blackhawks (+1.5) have a 65% chance of covering the puck line, while the over/under total of 6.5 goals has a 55% chance of staying under.
Blue Jackets vs. Blackhawks odds
We have sourced the best NHL odds in America for this game, which are listed here:
| Bet Type | Blue Jackets | Blackhawks |
|---|---|---|
| Puck Line | -1.5 (+160) | +1.5 (-178) |
| Moneyline | -160 | +138 |
| Total | o6.5 (+104) | u6.5 (-122) |
All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.
Blue Jackets vs. Blackhawks picks and best bet
After matching our predictions against the best current odds, we can reveal our picks for each of the major markets. Plus, find our best bet for the game below:
| Bet Type | Pick | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|
| Puck Line | Blackhawks +1.5 | -178 |
| Moneyline | Blackhawks | +138 |
| Total | Under 6.5 | -122 |
According to our NHL best bets, the top play to make on this game is Blackhawks +1.5 at the spread.
Blue Jackets vs. Blackhawks player props
Who will score a goal in Blue Jackets vs. Blackhawks?
According to our model, Connor Bedard is most likely to score an anytime goal in Blue Jackets vs. Blackhawks.
Our projections give Bedard a 32.8% chance of scoring a goal at United Center, while the star is a 6.6% chance of netting the first goal the game.
Anytime goal scorer predictions
Columbus Blue Jackets
| Player | Anytime Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Mason Marchment | 32.7% |
| Kirill Marchenko | 29.1% |
| Adam Fantilli | 28.1% |
| Zach Werenski | 25.1% |
| Kent Johnson | 23.6% |
Chicago Blackhawks
| Player | Anytime Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Connor Bedard | 32.8% |
| Tyler Bertuzzi | 30.8% |
| Ilya Mikheyev | 28.0% |
| Frank Nazar | 26.8% |
| Teuvo Teravainen | 21.9% |
First goal scorer predictions
Columbus Blue Jackets
| Player | First Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Mason Marchment | 6.1% |
| Kirill Marchenko | 5.1% |
| Adam Fantilli | 4.9% |
| Zach Werenski | 4.4% |
| Kent Johnson | 4.4% |
Chicago Blackhawks
| Player | First Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Connor Bedard | 6.6% |
| Tyler Bertuzzi | 6.2% |
| Ilya Mikheyev | 5.5% |
| Frank Nazar | 5.0% |
| Teuvo Teravainen | 4.2% |
Blue Jackets vs. Hawks game-day updates and essential details
Friday's game between the Blackhawks and Blue Jackets at United Center is scheduled to start at 8:30 PM ET.
- Who: Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Chicago Blackhawks
- Date: Friday, January 30, 2026
- Time: 8:30 PM ET/5:30PM PT
- Venue: United Center
Conclusion
We predict the Blue Jackets, with a 57% win probability, will likely beat the Blackhawks on Friday.
AI and automation have enhanced this article to quickly deliver accurate Blue Jackets vs. Blackhawks insights, with human oversight ensuring high editorial quality. Our predictions are drawn from the latest data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice on responsible gambling, please call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Note: Clicking links to our partners may earn us a referral fee. Learn about how we review products and services.
Jason Bevilacqua, an expert in MLB, NHL, NBA, MLS, and NFL, delivers game previews, best bets, and props. Since 2020, as Head of Social and Community at Dimers, he has contributed insightful articles utilizing data-driven models and simulations.
Advertiser disclosure