NHL · January 24, 2026
Tampa Bay Lightning @ Columbus Blue Jackets
Free LineCrush game report for Tampa Bay Lightning @ Columbus Blue Jackets on January 24, 2026, 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
Lightning's Dominant Streak vs. Bowness's Defensive Resurgence
Tampa Bay enters with a franchise-best 15-game points streak (14-0-1), the third-longest in team history, while Columbus has reinvigorated its defense under new coach Rick Bowness with a 4-1-0 record since his hire. The Lightning are 8-1-1 in the first half of back-to-back sets, but face a well-rested Blue Jackets team coming off a 1-0 shutout victory over Dallas where Columbus recorded 35 hits and allowed just 28 shots.
Special Teams Vulnerability: The Faceoff Disadvantage
The Lightning rank 31st in the NHL in faceoff win percentage at 46.3%, with Jake Guentzel and Anthony Cirelli unable to consistently dominate in the circle. Columbus must exploit this weakness to establish puck control and transition into their counter-attacking game, especially given their emphasis on physical play and forecheck intensity.
Tired Legs on the Second Night: Back-to-Back Scheduling Factor
Tampa Bay played a full 65-minute game Friday night against Chicago (winning 2-1 in a shootout) before traveling to Columbus late, while the Blue Jackets had a full day of rest. Bowness's team has demonstrated ability to finish checks relentlessly—leading 35-7 in checks against Dallas—and should target the Lightning's leg fatigue, particularly in the final two periods.
Offensive Firepower Mismatch and Defensive Discipline Required
Tampa Bay ranks fifth in goals scored with 169 on the season while allowing just 2.45 per game (plus-50 goal differential), whereas Columbus has scored only two goals in its last two games despite stellar defense. The Blue Jackets must generate scoring depth beyond their shutdown game; relying solely on 1-0 victories will not suffice against the league's most balanced offensive attack.
Kucherov's Momentum vs. Coyle's Veteran Stability
Nikita Kucherov has been instrumental in Tampa's success, scoring in the Chicago victory and extending the points streak, while Charlie Coyle provides Columbus with 30 points in 50 games and leadership in net-front battle situations. Coyle's performance against Dallas—where he was mobbed after assisting on the game-winner—exemplifies the veteran poise the Blue Jackets will need to neutralize Kucherov's creative threat.
Pick Ideas
Blue Jackets Moneyline Value
Columbus is well-rested, playing at home, and has defensive blueprint to slow Tampa's explosive offense after 1-0 shutout; combined with the Lightning's fatigue from back-to-back travel, moneyline value favors the underdog.
Under on Total Goals
Blue Jackets' shutdown defense (28 shots allowed vs. Dallas) combined with Tampa's second-leg fatigue suggests a low-scoring affair; targeting under 5.5 total goals aligns with Columbus's 1-0 and recent defensive identity.
Blue Jackets to Win Faceoff Battle Prop
Lightning's 46.3% faceoff win percentage ranks 31st league-wide; if available, backing Columbus to win faceoff percentage offers strong value given their depth at center (Monahan, Coyle, Fantilli).
First Period Under/Defensive Tone
With Bowness emphasizing defense-first mentality and Lightning coming off late travel, expect cautious play early; first-period under or first-period no goal could offer value.
Zach Werenski Assist Prop
Werenski scored the game-winner against Dallas and provides offensive catalyst from the blue line; with Columbus seeking offensive output, his assist prop carries appeal in a game where Blue Jackets need secondary scoring.