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Lightning vs. Blue Jackets prediction: Why Tampa Bay is favored to win Saturday's NHL matchup [10/18/2025]
Updated: | First published:
Written by Ryan Leaver, Senior Sports and Betting Editor
Get Tampa Bay Lightning vs Columbus Blue Jackets predictions for NHL Saturday.
The Columbus Blue Jackets will take on the Tampa Bay Lightning in NHL action at Nationwide Arena on Saturday, beginning at 7:00PM ET.
Based on updated simulation results, Dimers' advanced NHL model projects the Lightning as the most likely winner of today's game.
For expanded analysis of Saturday's matchup, including best bets and player prop picks, visit our interactive Lightning vs. Blue Jackets predictions page.
Lightning vs. Blue Jackets prediction: Who will win, cover the puck line?
Using powerful machine learning and data, we have simulated the outcome of Saturday's NHL matchup between the Lightning and Blue Jackets 10,000 times as part of our NHL predictions coverage.
Our famous predictive model gives the Lightning a 51% chance of defeating the Blue Jackets.
According to our model, the Lightning (+1.5) have a 71% chance of covering the puck line, while the over/under total of 6.5 goals has a 51% chance of staying under.
Lightning vs. Blue Jackets odds
We have sourced the best NHL odds in America for this game, which are listed here:
| Bet Type | Lightning | Blue Jackets |
|---|---|---|
| Puck Line | +1.5 (-210) | -1.5 (+180) |
| Moneyline | +114 | -135 |
| Total | o6.5 (-102) | u6.5 (-110) |
All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.
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Lightning vs. Blue Jackets picks and best bets
Our model's biggest edge in today's Lightning vs. Blue Jackets matchup is on the moneyline.
Our expert predictions, aligned with the best odds, reveal the best NHL picks and NHL best bets for every game throughout the season.
Unlimited access to our complete set of picks, including this one, is available via Dimers Pro.
Lightning vs. Blue Jackets player props
Who will score an anytime goal in Lightning vs. Blue Jackets?
According to our model, Tampa Bay's Brayden Point is most likely to score the first goal in Lightning vs. Blue Jackets.
Our projections give Point a 9.8% chance of scoring the first goal at Nationwide Arena, while the Lightning star is a 47.0% chance of registering an anytime goal.
First goal scorer predictions
Tampa Bay Lightning
| Player | First Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Brayden Point | 9.8% |
| Jake Guentzel | 9.3% |
| Brandon Hagel | 6.3% |
Columbus Blue Jackets
| Player | First Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Kirill Marchenko | 6.5% |
| Adam Fantilli | 4.9% |
| Dmitri Voronkov | 4.7% |
Anytime goal scorer predictions
Tampa Bay Lightning
| Player | Anytime Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Brayden Point | 47.0% |
| Jake Guentzel | 45.0% |
| Brandon Hagel | 32.3% |
Columbus Blue Jackets
| Player | Anytime Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Kirill Marchenko | 32.8% |
| Adam Fantilli | 28.4% |
| Dmitri Voronkov | 26.1% |
Lightning vs. Blue Jackets game-day updates and essential details
Saturday's matchup between the Blue Jackets and Lightning at Nationwide Arena is scheduled to begin at 7:00PM ET.
- Who: Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Columbus Blue Jackets
- Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025
- Time: 7:00PM ET/4:00PM PT
- Venue: Nationwide Arena
Dimers' comprehensive preview of Saturday's Lightning vs. Blue Jackets matchup includes our prediction, picks and the latest betting odds.
Before making any Lightning vs. Blue Jackets picks, be sure to check out the latest NHL predictions and betting advice from Dimers Pro.
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Conclusion
We predict the Lightning, with a 51% win probability, will likely beat the Blue Jackets on Saturday.
AI and automation have enhanced this article to quickly deliver accurate Lightning vs. Blue Jackets insights, with human oversight ensuring high editorial quality. Our predictions are drawn from up-to-date data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice on responsible gambling, please call 1-800-GAMBLER.
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More on NHL
Keep up with the latest NHL betting news and parlay picks throughout the season. Plus, our Stanley Cup odds offer the most accurate predictions for the Stanley Cup title.
Make the most of your sports betting experience by exploring our comprehensive list of US betting apps, and the latest sportsbooks in 2025, ensuring you never miss a top new-user deal.
Ryan Leaver uses advanced statistical models and simulations to predict outcomes and provide predictions for the NBA, NFL, college football, college basketball, and soccer. He offers detailed game previews, best bets, props, and futures articles.
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