Columbus Blue Jackets vs Pittsburgh Penguins Picks and Prediction for Saturday January 17 2026
Use Code PPWC
The Columbus Blue Jackets visit the Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG Paints Arena on Saturday, January 17, 2026, with puck drop set for 7:00 PM EST on ESPN+. Pittsburgh is -125 on the moneyline with Columbus at +105, and the total is 6.5 (Over -118, Under -102). Make sure to check out our free NHL picks for more daily coverage.
Columbus Is Heating Up At The Right Time
Columbus comes in at 21-19-7 overall with a 10-12-3 road record, and they’ve won three of their last five with wins over the Canucks and Flames plus a road overtime win over the Mammoth, while also dropping games to the Avalanche and Golden Knights. That’s a solid form spike, and it matters because it suggests their offense is finding timing again.
The Blue Jackets are scoring 2.98 goals per game while allowing 3.32, and they’re generating 30.7 shots per game while allowing 30.9 shots against per game. Their power play has produced 24 goals on a 20.3% rate, and the penalty kill has been strong at 84.2%. Even with a higher goals-against number, the special teams profile gives them a way to keep games tight.
Columbus’ best angle is that they can create offense through volume, and if they keep the game close early, their special teams can make the difference late.
Sign Up Get $30 Premium Picks Credit + Exclusive Offers
Subscribe Now
Pittsburgh’s Special Teams Give Them A Big Edge
Pittsburgh enters at 22-14-10 overall with an 11-7-6 home record, and their last five includes a win over the Flyers and a win over the Devils, with losses to the Lightning (in a shootout), Bruins, and Flames. That’s not dominant form, but it’s still competitive hockey in mostly tight results.
The Penguins are producing 3.17 goals per game while allowing 2.91, with 28.8 shots per game and 27.7 shots against per game. Their power play has been elite with 37 goals and a 29.4% conversion rate, and the penalty kill sits at 83.2%. When you have that kind of special teams advantage, you can win games even when 5-on-5 is messy.
Pittsburgh’s edge is clear: if Columbus takes penalties, Pittsburgh can flip the game fast. That’s a major separator in a matchup expected to be close.
Columbus Blue Jackets vs Pittsburgh Penguins Pick
Columbus Blue Jackets vs Pittsburgh Penguins Pick
- Pick: Pittsburgh Penguins -125 (Moneyline)
I’m backing Pittsburgh because the special teams gap is significant, and I trust their defensive baseline more than Columbus’ in a home setting. Columbus is playing better, but with Pittsburgh’s power play operating near 30%, one bad discipline stretch can swing the entire result.
Columbus Blue Jackets vs Pittsburgh Penguins Total Pick
- Pick: Over 6.5 (-118)
I’m on the over because both offenses are capable, Columbus plays higher-event hockey with a goals-against above three, and Pittsburgh’s power play efficiency creates a realistic path to a 4-3 final. If this game gets any special teams volume, the scoring can stack quickly.
Final Score Prediction: Penguins 4, Blue Jackets 3
How To Bet This Matchup
Before placing a wager on this matchup, it’s essential to approach the betting process strategically by leveraging available incentives. Starting with current sportsbook promos can help you identify platforms offering risk-free bets or deposit matches. Comparing the best betting sites ensures you’re getting fair odds and a secure betting environment. Bettors looking for mainstream sportsbook exposure often turn to BetMGM, where a Betmgm bonus code can provide extra wagering power on spreads, totals, or props. Those seeking lower vig and peer-to-peer style markets may prefer Novig, especially when using a Novig promo code. If you’re betting casually or experimenting with new strategies, free betting apps are an excellent way to stay involved without upfront risk. Social sportsbooks like Thrillzz gain added appeal when paired with a Thrillz promo code, while many bettors also supplement their action with Sweepstakes casino bonuses to enjoy legal, prize-based gaming alongside traditional sports bets.
Never Tried Picks and Parlays? Now Is Your Chance
- Get your first daily picks package for ONLY $1 using coupon code BUCK
- If the pick loses, we credit your account with 3 Flex Picks
- If the pick wins, we still give you 1 Flex Pick on the house
- Win or lose, you walk away ahead. One dollar. No catch.
Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win
New Users – Bet $5 Get $200 in Bet Reset Tokens for 5 Days
New DraftKings Customers: Spend $5+ Get $200 in Bonuses Instantly!
