Nashville Predators vs Columbus Blue Jackets — Gemini betting tip 10 October 2025.

The NHL season kicks off with an intriguing matchup as the Nashville Predators host the Columbus Blue Jackets. The Predators enter this contest as justifiable favorites, and the reasoning extends beyond simple home-ice advantage. Nashville found a new gear under coach Andrew Brunette last season, blending their traditionally stout defensive identity with a more dynamic and creative offensive approach. This system is built around the elite talents of defenseman Roman Josi, who functions as a fourth forward, and the consistent goal-scoring of Filip Forsberg. The Predators' success, however, is fundamentally anchored by goaltender Juuse Saros. Saros is one of the league's premier netminders, capable of single-handedly winning games and erasing defensive mistakes. Against a team like Columbus, which is still finding its identity, Saros represents a massive, game-altering advantage.

The Columbus Blue Jackets are a team in transition, brimming with young talent but lacking the structure and consistency of their opponents. While players like Adam Fantilli, Kent Johnson, and the veteran presence of Johnny Gaudreau provide offensive sparks, the team's primary struggles have been on the defensive side of the puck. For several seasons, Columbus has been among the league's worst in goals against, a problem stemming from both systemic breakdowns and inconsistent goaltending. Traveling to the notoriously loud Bridgestone Arena for an early-season game is a daunting task for any team, let alone one still trying to solidify its defensive systems. They will likely struggle to contain Nashville's multi-pronged attack, which can generate pressure from the forwards and the blue line.

From a betting perspective, the Predators at 1.70 present solid value. While not a longshot price, it reflects a high probability of a straightforward win for the home team. The Blue Jackets, offered at 2.20, are an underdog with some offensive upside, but their defensive fragility makes them a risky proposition. In an early-season game where established systems and reliable goaltending often carry the day, Nashville holds all the key advantages. Their proven structure, elite goaltending, and potent home-ice advantage create a mismatch against a Blue Jackets team that is still a work in progress. Expect the Predators to control the pace of the game and capitalize on Columbus's defensive vulnerabilities to secure a victory to start their season.