Blue Jackets Aim to Extend Streak Against Utah; Sabres Host Predators

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Columbus Blue Jackets (25-19-7) are set to continue their impressive run as they face the Utah Hockey Club at the Delta Center on Friday night. Riding a 9-2-1 streak in their last 12 games, the Blue Jackets are coming off a thrilling 2-1 overtime victory against the Vegas Golden Knights on Thursday.

Columbus forward has been a key contributor, tallying six points (four goals, two assists) in his past four games. His 15 goals and 29 points in 51 games this season already surpass his rookie totals from last year. Meanwhile, Utah, struggling at home with an 8-11-5 record, will be without forward , who is sidelined indefinitely with a lower-body injury.

In Buffalo, the Sabres (19-26-5) are looking to build momentum after a dominant 7-2 win over the Boston Bruins on Tuesday. Forwards and each recorded a hat trick in the victory, with Thompson amassing 10 points (six goals, four assists) in his last seven games. The Sabres host the Nashville Predators (18-24-7), who have lost two straight after a five-game winning streak. Predators forward , set to represent Sweden in the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off, has been a standout with 19 points (nine goals, 10 assists) in his past 11 games.

Elsewhere, the Vancouver Canucks (23-17-10) and Dallas Stars (32-17-1) will clash at American Airlines Center. The Canucks, wrapping up a three-game road trip, have won three straight, while the Stars are riding a three-game winning streak. Dallas will be without defenseman , who is week-to-week with a knee injury.

The St. Louis Blues (23-24-4) and Colorado Avalanche (29-21-2) round out the night’s action. The Blues, winless in their last three games, face an Avalanche team that has struggled recently, going 1-3-1 in their past five contests.