Columbus Blue Jackets vs Buffalo Sabres Prediction, Odds and Picks for Today, 04/09/26

The Columbus Blue Jackets are set to take on the Buffalo Sabres on Thursday night at KeyBank Center. The Blue Jackets held a playoff spot not too long ago, but a 3-6-1 stretch over their last 10 games now has them on the outside looking in. Columbus is coming off a 4-3 shootout win over Detroit on Tuesday, but the Red Wings are also spiraling. Going on the road to face the Sabres presents a much tougher challenge for Rick Bowness’ squad. The Sabres are a strong 25-10-4 at home this season, and now that a playoff spot is secured, the fans in Buffalo are sure to create a raucous environment for this contest.

The Blue Jackets have scored just 2 power play goals over their last 10 games, which doesn’t create a whole lot of confidence in their ability to take advantage of their chances on the man advantage. The Sabres seem to have the advantage on the power play, as their conversion rate of 24.% at home this season is good for 7th in the NHL. The Blue Jackets have won the previous 2 matchups between these teams this season, but the last meeting came back on January 3. The Sabres have reached another gear and are much-improved since then, while the Blue Jackets are trending in the wrong direction. Playing on home ice, look for the Sabres to find the win column in this one.

Blue Jackets vs Sabres prediction: Buffalo Sabres ML (-130) available at time of publishing. Playable at that number. 

You can bet on our Blue Jackets vs Sabres pick with BetMGM, where right now new users can activate your new BetMGM account ⚡ and receive $150 in bonus bets INSTANTLY if your first $10+ wager is a winner!