The Columbus Blue Jackets enter their January 24, 2026 matchup against the Tampa Bay Lightning with momentum on their side and plenty to play for as they battle for positioning within the Metropolitan Division. Columbus’s recent run — including a 1-0 shutout over the Dallas Stars and multiple wins under new head coach Rick Bowness — has sparked optimism among fans and bettors alike. The Blue Jackets have shown they can execute in tight, low-scoring affairs, with goaltender Jet Greaves standing out as a backbone for the club. Greaves’s recent shutout illustrated his ability to steal games and keep Columbus competitive even when outshot or facing high-end offensive talent. Offensively, Columbus leans on the dynamic two-way presence of Zach Werenski, whose scoring from the back end adds an extra dimension and often jumpstarts transition plays. Complemented by contributors like Kirill Marchenko and other emerging forwards, the Blue Jackets have enough firepower to supply offense in bursts — particularly when they can sustain pressure in the offensive zone and win puck battles along the boards. When Columbus generates momentum early in games and avoids early deficits, its attack has shown the patience and skill to make things difficult for even elite defenses.

Defensively, Columbus has worked to tighten structure and limit high-danger chances, but this unit can be tested when facing teams with elite puck possession and high shot quality. Special teams are a critical factor for the Blue Jackets; their penalty kill has improved, but they can’t afford lapses when Tampa Bay’s power play — though not among the league’s very best — consistently creates high-danger opportunities. Columbus’s ability to limit turnovers and stay disciplined will be paramount. At home in Nationwide Arena, the Blue Jackets have drawn energy from their fans and created a physical, puck-possession-oriented game. This environment makes Columbus a tougher out and often keeps them competitive through all three periods. Bettors will note Columbus’s recent 5-1 ATS run, reflecting a squad tightening its play and finding ways to cover in close games, especially at home. Against a high-octane Tampa team, Columbus will need to control pace early, avoid extended defensive zone time, and hope that home-ice familiarity helps push this into a tightly contested finish. With momentum on their side and recent form trending upward, the Blue Jackets have a credible path to making this an entertaining and competitive clash come puck drop.