The Columbus Blue Jackets are just 3-6 in their last nine games and coming off back-to-back defeats, the most recent an embarrassing 5-2 loss to the lowly Vancouver Canucks Friday night.

I expect the Jackets to come out angry and motivated for this clash with the Dallas Stars Thursday night. Note that Columbus is 7-0 in its last seven games following a loss of three or more goals and 14-5 in its last 19 after scoring two goals or fewer in its previous game.

The Stars have won four of their last five, but this is a tough spot playing their fourth game in six nights. They're just 3-11 in their last 14 in the fourth game of a 4-in-6 situation and the Blue Jackets have claimed four straight head-to-head meetings.

My free pick is on Columbus Blue Jackets.

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