The Columbus Blue Jackets host the Chicago Blackhawks tonight at Nationwide Arena, Columbus, Ohio, in their final game before the Olympic break. Columbus enter this matchup as one of the hottest teams in the NHL, riding a long winning streak and pushing hard for a playoff spot. Chicago, meanwhile, are struggling for consistency but still carry threat through young stars like Connor Bedard.
With momentum clearly on one side, this game is important for both teams for very different reasons.
Jackets vs Blackhawks Match Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | Wednesday, February 4, 2026 (IST: Feb 5 morning) |
| Time | 7:00 PM ET / 5:30 AM IST |
| Venue | Nationwide Arena, Columbus, Ohio |
| TV (USA) | ESPN+, FanDuel Sports Network Ohio, Chicago Sports Network |
| Live Stream | ESPN+, Fubo (trial), NHL.tv / DAZN (international) |
Where to Watch
- Primary option: ESPN+ via VPN (US server)
- Alternative: NHL.tv or DAZN (region dependent)
- Highlights: NHL official YouTube channel and NHL app after the game
Team Records & Current Form (2025-26 Season)
| Team | Record | Points | Conference Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| Columbus Blue Jackets | 28-20-7 | 63 | 9th–10th (East) |
| Chicago Blackhawks | 22-25-9 | 53 | 12th (West) |
Columbus are surging at the right time, while Chicago remain outside the playoff picture and searching for stability.
Jackets vs Blackhawks Last 5 Games Form
Columbus Blue Jackets
- Recent form: W-W-W-W-W
- Six straight wins overall
- Last game: 3-0 shutout vs New Jersey Devils
- Strong goaltending and disciplined defense driving results
Chicago Blackhawks
- Recent form: Mixed
- Competitive in stretches but inconsistent
- Offensive output improving, defense still a concern
Also see: Florida Panthers vs Boston Bruins: Prediction
Jackets vs Blackhawks Head-to-Head (H2H)
| Category | Insight |
|---|---|
| Total meetings | 100+ (all competitions) |
| Last meeting | Blue Jackets won 4-2 (Jan 30, 2026) |
| Recent trend | Columbus won last 6 vs Chicago |
| Venue note | Chicago earned points in 7 of last 10 visits to Nationwide Arena |
Despite Chicago’s historical edge, recent matchups have strongly favored Columbus.
Jackets vs Blackhawks Stats & Key Facts
| Category | Blue Jackets | Blackhawks |
|---|---|---|
| Defensive trend | Multiple shutouts recently | 176 goals conceded |
| Power play | Improving in recent games | 19.5% |
| Playing style | Structured, physical | Fast but error-prone |
Key Players to Watch
Columbus Blue Jackets
- Zach Werenski – team leader, 61 points
- Charlie Coyle – in hot scoring form
- Jet Greaves – expected starter in goal
Chicago Blackhawks
- Connor Bedard – primary offensive weapon
- Teuvo Teravainen – playmaking support
- Frank Nazar – young energy forward
Jackets vs Blackhawks Injury Updates
Columbus Blue Jackets
- Kirill Marchenko – Injured, unlikely to play
Chicago Blackhawks
- Lineup depth issues
- Bedard available and expected to play
Columbus have fewer injury concerns and more lineup stability heading into this game.
Betting Odds (Latest)
| Market | Odds |
|---|---|
| Moneyline | Blue Jackets -148 to -152 / Blackhawks +124 to +132 |
| Puck Line | Blue Jackets -1.5 (+170) / Blackhawks +1.5 (-205) |
| Total Goals | Over/Under 6.5 |
Most analysts lean toward the Under 6.5 goals due to Columbus’ recent defensive performances.
Jackets vs Blackhawks Prediction & Best Picks
Match Prediction
Columbus Blue Jackets 4 – 2 Chicago Blackhawks
(Alternate: 3-1 Columbus)
Best Picks
- Columbus Blue Jackets moneyline (-150)
- Under 6.5 total goals
- Charlie Coyle or Dmitri Voronkov anytime goal
Columbus enter this game with confidence, structure, and momentum, while Chicago are still rebuilding and struggling defensively. Although the Blackhawks have young talent capable of producing moments, the overall form and discipline of the Blue Jackets make them clear favorites at home.
This matchup is a strong opportunity for Columbus to secure a seventh straight win and head into the Olympic break on a high.
