Welcome back to NHL Predictions. Each day, our writers here at Last Word On Hockey look at the games and give in-depth analysis. Our team breaks down the key matchups, storylines, and stats, then makes predictions based on how they might play out. Our featured game of this edition is the Columbus Blue Jackets taking on the Buffalo Sabres. Be sure to check out more NHL Predictions, as our writers continue this series throughout the 2025-26 season.
NHL Predictions
Columbus Blue Jackets vs Buffalo Sabres
Head-to-Head: Blue Jackets 2-0 Sabres
How to Watch: US TV: MSG Buffalo; Fan Duel Sports Ohio; ESPN+. Canada TV: Sportnet; TVA Sports.
Time: 7 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)
Our opening and featured game of NHL predictions is a critical game for both the Buffalo Sabres and the Columbus Blue Jackets. Jet Greaves is the expected starter for the Blue Jackets but always check social media before locking in a daily fantasy starter. Columbus is 3-6-1 in its last 10 games. However, the Blue Jackets did collect a massive win over the Detroit Red Wings. The Jackets are two points off the second wild card, which is currently held by the Ottawa Senators. Kirill Marchenko leads the team in goals (26), assists (39) and points (65).
Alex Lyon is the probable starter for the Sabres, who need the two points for a different reason. Buffalo leads the Atlantic Division by two points, but the Tampa Bay Lightning have a game in hand. The Sabres are 5-3-2 and have two consecutive wins entering this matchup. Tage Thompson is the team’s leader in goals (38), assists (41), and points (79) for Buffalo.
This should be a good game. However, Buffalo avoids the season sweep with a win.
Prediction: Sabres win 4-2.
