NHL · December 16, 2025
Anaheim Ducks @ Columbus Blue Jackets
Free LineCrush game report for Anaheim Ducks @ Columbus Blue Jackets on December 16, 2025, with matchup analysis and pick ideas generated for the daily slate. Reports can update as lineups, injuries, and odds develop, so confirm time-sensitive details before acting.
Matchup Analysis
Ducks Riding Momentum with Elite Offensive Depth
Anaheim enters with a 20-12-1 record and is fresh off a dominant 4-1 victory against the Rangers, with Cutter Gauthier recording two goals and Lukas Dostal posting a .963 save percentage. The Ducks' top offensive weapons—Leo Carlsson (41 points), Gauthier (36 points), and Troy Terry (34 points)—have combined for 111 points through 33 games, providing Columbus with a significant scoring challenge.
Blue Jackets in Crisis Mode with Fifth Straight Loss
Columbus is spiraling at 13-13-6 after a 3-2 home loss to Vegas, extending their losing streak to five games. The Blue Jackets are allowing 4.1 goals per game over their last 10 contests and their penalty-kill efficiency sits at just 72.5%, making them vulnerable against Anaheim's skilled forwards.
Historical Advantage Ducks: Winning Matchup
Anaheim has dominated this season series, winning eight of the last 10 matchups against Columbus, including a 4-2 victory and a 4-3 overtime win at Nationwide Arena. This historical edge reflects the talent gap between the two rosters.
Goaltending Uncertainty May Favor Anaheim
While Columbus has backup option Elvis Merzlikins available, Jet Greaves posted a 2.63 GAA and .908 SV% in recent outings. Anaheim's likely starter Ville Husso (3.16 GAA, .888 SV%) faces elevated risk, but the Ducks' superior offensive support provides confidence in getting offensive production regardless.
Columbus Defensive Depth Compromised by Injuries
The Blue Jackets are missing Erik Gudbranson (hip) and Luca Marrelli (shoulder), forcing combinations that lack cohesion. Mathieu Olivier is also sidelined, limiting forward depth. These absences against a high-powered Ducks attack present a significant liability.
Pick Ideas
Ducks Moneyline
Anaheim's superior depth, momentum, and historical dominance over Columbus warrant backing the Ducks in regulation. The Blue Jackets' five-game losing streak and defensive injuries make this an attractive value play.
Under 6.5 Goals
While Anaheim scores efficiently (3.1 goals per 10 games), Columbus is allowing defensive breakdowns (4.1 GA/10) and the total sits attractively at -105. A low-scoring affair aligns with recent Blue Jackets defensive struggles.
Zach Werenski Over 0.5 Assists
Werenski has recorded at least one assist in four consecutive home games. As Columbus's top offensive catalyst with 24 assists on the season, he's a strong prop at -164 in a game where the Blue Jackets will need offensive contributions.
Troy Terry to Score
Terry is part of Anaheim's dominant top-six group with 34 points this season. Against a struggling Columbus defense, Terry offers solid value in a high-volume scoring environment for the Ducks.
Ducks -1.5 Puck Line
While this line requires a two-goal victory, Anaheim's offensive advantages and Columbus's recent defensive collapse support a comfortable road win. The Ducks' 4.1 goals per game potential gives this line merit at reasonable odds.