A compelling Eastern Conference matchup is set for Saturday afternoon as the streaking Buffalo Sabres travel to take on the Columbus Blue Jackets. The Sabres are putting their remarkable 10-game winning streak on the line against a Blue Jackets team looking to build consistency and defend home ice.
1. Game Overview
The Buffalo Sabres will face the Columbus Blue Jackets on Saturday, January 3, 2026. The game is scheduled for a 3:10 PM EST start at Nationwide Arena in Columbus. Fans can watch the game on ESPN+.
2. Team Form and Analysis
Buffalo Sabres (21-14-4)
The Buffalo Sabres enter this contest as one of the hottest teams in the NHL. They are currently riding an impressive 10-game winning streak, which includes a seven-game road winning streak. This sustained run of excellent play has vaulted them up the standings. While specific player statistics for the streak were not detailed in the provided information, the team’s overall performance has been dominant, turning their season around after a difficult stretch in November. Their 21-14-4 record reflects a team that has found its rhythm and is proving to be a formidable opponent, especially away from home.
Columbus Blue Jackets (17-16-6)
The Columbus Blue Jackets have had a more turbulent season, posting a record of 4-6-0 in their last 10 games with a -4 goal differential over that span. Their overall 17-16-6 record places them in a battle for positioning in the conference. The Blue Jackets will receive a significant boost for this game with the anticipated return of top defenseman Zach Werenski from injury. His presence on the blue line is crucial for Columbus, and his return could provide the stability they need to counter Buffalo’s high-powered attack. The team is looking to leverage their home-ice advantage to snap the Sabres’ lengthy streak and kick off 2026 with a statement win.
3. Injury Report
The Buffalo Sabres will be without goaltender Alex Lyon, who is out with a lower-body injury.
The Columbus Blue Jackets are dealing with several injuries. Defenseman Brendan Smith and forward Isac Lundestrom have both been placed on injured reserve. Additionally, forward Miles Wood is considered week-to-week. However, in a major development, star defenseman Zach Werenski is expected to return to the lineup for this game against the Sabres.
4. Betting Odds Breakdown
- Moneyline: Sabres -110, Blue Jackets -110
- Spread: Not provided in search results.
- Total (Over/Under): Not provided in search results.
The moneyline odds indicate this game is considered a true toss-up, or a “pick’em.” With both teams listed at -110, a bettor would need to wager $110 to win $100 on either the Sabres or the Blue Jackets to win the game outright. These odds reflect the oddsmakers’ difficulty in separating the teams, weighing Buffalo’s incredible winning streak against Columbus being at home and getting a key player back.
5. Prediction
While the betting odds suggest an even matchup, it is difficult to ignore the Buffalo Sabres’ current form. A 10-game winning streak, including seven straight on the road, demonstrates a level of execution and confidence that is hard to stop. The return of Zach Werenski is a significant positive for the Blue Jackets and will undoubtedly make them a tougher opponent. However, the Sabres are playing with a cohesion that has proven effective against a variety of opponents. Columbus has struggled with consistency, as evidenced by their 4-6-0 record over their last 10 games. Until a team proves it can cool them off, riding with the hot hand is the logical choice.
Prediction: Sabres 4, Blue Jackets 2
Sources:
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Buffalo Sabres vs Columbus Blue Jackets History
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