Anaheim Ducks vs Columbus Blue Jackets Picks and Predictions for Tuesday December 16 2025
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The Anaheim Ducks continue their road trip with a visit to Nationwide Arena to take on the Columbus Blue Jackets in a matchup between two teams trending in opposite directions. Anaheim has been one of the more productive offensive teams in the league, while Columbus enters this game searching for answers after a string of disappointing performances. Before breaking down the matchup, make sure to check out today’s free NHL Picks for more expert betting analysis across the league.
Game Information
- Matchup: Anaheim Ducks vs Columbus Blue Jackets
- Date: Tuesday, December 16, 2025
- Time: 7:00 PM ET
- Location: Nationwide Arena (Columbus, OH)
- TV Coverage: ESPN+
Columbus opens as a modest home favorite, with the total set at 6.5 goals.
Anaheim Ducks Breakdown
Anaheim enters this contest with a strong 19-12-1 record, including a respectable 8-8-1 mark on the road. Despite recent losses in New Jersey and New York, the Ducks remain one of the more dangerous offensive teams in the NHL, averaging 3.44 goals per game, which ranks near the top of the league.
The Ducks are led offensively by Leo Carlsson, who has emerged as a star with 40 points (17 goals, 23 assists). Carlsson drives play at even strength and has been a reliable finisher on the power play. Troy Terry continues to be an excellent setup man, leading the team with 24 assists, while Anaheim’s forward depth allows them to roll multiple scoring lines.
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Defensively, Anaheim has been more vulnerable, allowing 3.34 goals per game. Their penalty kill has been inconsistent at 75.0%, which is an area of concern against a Columbus team that generates chances off the rush. Still, the Ducks do a good job controlling possession, averaging 31.1 shots per game, one of the highest marks in the league.
In net, Anaheim is expected to start Lukas Dostal, who owns a 2.83 GAA and .902 save percentage. While not elite, Dostal has been steady and gives Anaheim a chance to win most nights if the offense shows up.
Columbus Blue Jackets Breakdown
Columbus comes into this game at 13-13-6, and while they remain competitive at home (6-5-3), the Blue Jackets are clearly trending downward. They have lost five straight games, including four on the road, and defensive lapses have been a recurring issue.
Offensively, Columbus averages 2.88 goals per game, with Zach Werenski leading the team in scoring at 33 points (9 goals, 24 assists). Werenski remains the focal point of the offense from the blue line, while Dmitri Voronkov provides some scoring punch with 12 goals, including five on the power play.
The bigger concern for Columbus is defense. The Blue Jackets are allowing 3.47 goals per game and giving up over 31 shots per contest. Their penalty kill sits at 71.6%, which could be problematic against Anaheim’s aggressive shooting approach.
Goaltending has also been inconsistent. Jet Greaves has posted respectable numbers with a 2.75 GAA and .905 save percentage, but the defense in front of him has struggled to limit high-danger chances.
Key Matchup Factors
- Offensive Edge: Ducks average nearly a goal more per game than Columbus
- Shot Volume: Anaheim ranks among league leaders in shots per game
- Defensive Issues: Columbus struggling to suppress chances and kill penalties
- Recent Form: Blue Jackets enter on a five-game losing streak
Picks and Predictions
This matchup presents solid betting value on the road team. Anaheim’s ability to generate offense consistently gives them a clear edge against a Columbus team that has struggled defensively and has not been playing confident hockey.
The Ducks’ high shot volume should test Columbus goaltending early and often, and Anaheim’s depth scoring makes them difficult to defend over 60 minutes. While Columbus may keep this competitive early at home, Anaheim’s offensive pressure should eventually break through.
From a totals perspective, the Over 6.5 goals is also in play. Both teams allow more than three goals per game, and Anaheim games tend to open up when they dictate pace. Betting on sports and on the Ducks is easy, but even easier if you use the best sportsbooks. Make sure you know about how the fans are looking on prediction markets for the Blue Jackets with the Novig promo code. Make sure when you place your bet on Blue Jackets vs Ducks you are using the BetMGM bonus code.
Final Score Prediction
Anaheim Ducks 4, Columbus Blue Jackets 3
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