Nashville Predators vs Columbus Blue Jackets Picks and Predictions for Tuesday March 3 2026

By: Kim Smith Published 03/03/2026, 12:10 AM ET

The Nashville Predators travel to Nationwide Arena to face the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 PM, and the game will air on ESPN+. At the time of this writing, the odds were not released. For more betting insight on tonight’s matchups, be sure to check out our latest free NHL picks for additional expert analysis.

Predators Trying to Steady the Ship on the Road

Nashville enters this contest at 27-24-8 overall with an 11-12-5 record on the road. The Predators recently lost to Dallas 3-2 in overtime but earned wins over Chicago 4-2 and St. Louis 6-5. They also fell to Washington 4-2 and Minnesota 6-5 in overtime. Nashville has been competitive, but closing out tight games has been an issue.

The Predators are averaging 2.92 goals per game while allowing 3.44 goals against per contest. They generate 28.5 shots per game and allow 29.2 shots against. Nashville’s power play has produced 39 goals with a 22.4% success rate, showing efficiency when given opportunities.

Defensively, the penalty kill sits at 79.8% after allowing 36 power play goals. The Predators have not surrendered a shorthanded goal this season, which reflects solid puck management on the man advantage. However, their overall defensive numbers at even strength remain a concern heading into this matchup.

Subscribe Now

I authorize Picks And Parlays to send me promotional emails

I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. I have read and accepted the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. I consent that Picks And Parlays may use third-party services to process my data.

Terms & Conditions

Blue Jackets Strong at Home Ice

Columbus comes into this game at 29-21-8 overall and 15-8-5 at home. The Blue Jackets recently lost to the Islanders 4-3 in overtime and Boston 4-2, but they picked up convincing wins over Chicago 4-0, New Jersey 3-0, and St. Louis 5-3. They have been particularly solid at Nationwide Arena.

The Blue Jackets are scoring 3.09 goals per game while allowing 3.17 goals against. They average 30.0 shots per game and give up 30.1 shots per contest, showing an aggressive offensive approach. Columbus has 27 power play goals with a 19.6% conversion rate.

Their penalty kill has struggled at times, sitting at 77.4% and allowing 37 power play goals. Like Nashville, they have not allowed a shorthanded goal. Columbus’ balanced offensive output and strong home record give them confidence entering this matchup.

Nashville Predators vs Columbus Blue Jackets Pick

Pick: Columbus Blue Jackets Moneyline

Columbus has been far more consistent at home and faces a Nashville team that has struggled defensively on the road. With the Blue Jackets generating strong shot volume and holding a solid home record, I like them to capitalize on Nashville’s defensive vulnerabilities.

Nashville Predators vs Columbus Blue Jackets Total Pick

Pick: Over (if total is set at 6 or 6.5)

Both teams allow over three goals per game, and Nashville’s defensive struggles combined with Columbus’ aggressive style suggest scoring opportunities on both sides. I expect this to be an up-and-down game with plenty of chances. I’m leaning toward the over in this spot.

Final Score Prediction: Blue Jackets 4, Predators 3

This prediction was written before the completion of game play on Monday.