Vancouver vs Columbus Prediction: Both Aren't Doing Well

Prediction for the NHL Vancouver Canucks vs Columbus Blue Jackets match, which will take place on January 28th. Who will turn out to be stronger? Check the team conditions! Several betting options are available.

Vancouver could not keep the legendary Bruce Boudreau in the picture after all. After the loss to Edmonton, the experienced specialist was dismissed and Rick Tocchet stepped in to fill the vacant position. His first flop ended well as his new charges easily beat Chicago 5-2. It seemed that now their results would be winning, but in the second meeting, the Canadians lost to Seattle - 1-6. Vancouver is 12th in the Western Conference standings, almost a dozen points behind the top 8.

Columbus is a more modest team. They are solving only local problems, cultivating young and promising hockey players. It doesn't do without Russians. One made NHL history as he became the first player in almost a century, earning 11 starting points exclusively with goals. Alas, the Jackets aren't eligible for extra points for this. They've suffered four defeats in the last six meetings, beating only San Jose and Edmonton 5-3 and 3-2. With a vast gap, Columbus remains in last place in the Eastern Conference standings.

Vancouver and Columbus are having a poor season. The Canucks still have a chance to fight for the playoffs, but the Jackets are trailing heavily in the Eastern standings. Moreover, the Canadiens recently changed their coach, so they should have more activity. The lineup is more solid and balanced than that of the Americans. Home filed factor also speaks in their favor.

This season Columbus is a very drab and inert team, just waiting for the regular season to end. If the Jackets had more decent results a year ago and the vast majority of their games were productive and entertaining, now there is nothing like that.