Published Mar 16, 4:24am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Mar 16, 4:24am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Eastern Conference action in the NHL is set for March 17, as the Carolina Hurricanes bid to extend their advantage at the top of the Metropolitan Division when they face the Columbus Blue Jackets.
The Hurricanes have been professional this term, winning seven of their last ten. Meanwhile, Blue Jackets have won five of their last ten to sit fourth in the division standings.
The confidence within the Columbus Blue Jackets camp should be high after winning last time out. However, they needed good fortune in the shootout to overcome the Philadelphia Flyers.
Their only goal in regulation was scored by Kirill Marchenko. Rick Bowness has overseen a reversal in performance levels since taking over in mid-January, as they now sit fourth in the Metropolitan Division.
In home games, the Jackets have impressed, going 17-8-7. Zach Werenski has been a standout player, scoring a team-high 68 points.
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The Carolina Hurricanes have been in reliable form throughout the NHL season, meaning it is little surprise that they sit at the top of the Metropolitan Division.
The Canes have won two of their last three, which includes a powerful 4-2 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning over the weekend. Andrei Svechnikov and Sebastian Aho both scored and made assists in the win.
Carolina have been very strong on their travels throughout the season, going 17-9-4 away from Lenovo Center.
| TOTAL | Blue Jackets | Hurricanes | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WINS | 66 | 29 | 37 | - |
| GOALS | 375 | 175 | 200 |
This should be a competitive clash in the NHL this week. However, the narrow edge is for the Canes to maintain their advantage at the Metropolitan Division summit by claiming an eighth win in eleven games.
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Carolina Hurricanes
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