This is an 8* SITUATIONAL BLOWOUT on Columbus on the PUCK-LINE.

The Blue Jackets were a .500 team last year. They signed Johnny Gaudreau in the offseason though and he'll provide a much-needed spark to their offense. Columbus also resigned Patrik Laine.

The Jackets struggled defensively and in net last year. That's a bit uncharacteristic for this club. They have talent in net with Elvis Merzlikins and Joonas Korpisalo, who are both looking for bounce-back seasons. Columbus will not be lacking motivation here as it's lost six of the last seven in this series.

The Hurricanes are one of the favorites to win the East. The expectations are high, but could there be regression in order instead for Carolina?

The Canes were great defensively last year, as Frederik Andersen ranked second in save percentage and GAA. And Antti Raanta is one of the best backups.

Max Pacioretty is out until February for Carolina, which will have an impact on its offense.

This one is going to come "down to the wire" in my estimation, so I'm grabbing this hungry visiting side on the RUNLINE option.

Good luck, NP