Chicago at Columbus

Columbus has lost nine consecutive games and the Blue Jackets have the worst record in the Eastern Conference while averaging only 2.68 goals per game. Tonight's expected starter, Elvis Merzlikins, is 3-6-3 with a 3.31 goals-against average and .897 save percentage, and he has lost his past six starts following a 4-3 loss to Washington on Saturday when he allowed four goals on 26 shots. Chicago hasn't been much better as it has lost four straight, but the Blackhawks have won seven of the past nine meetings and have Petr Mrazek confirmed for tonight. Mrazek owns a 2.89 GAA and .915 save percentage this season, which is impressive given the Hawks' style. They allow 33.5 shots per game, fourth-most overall. The road team has won six of eight meetings and the Blue Jackets are 11-40 versus a team that scored two or fewer goals its previous game and Columbus is 14-38 playing with two days rest. Take the Blackhawks - Max Play.