Event Preview
Overview
The Florida Panthers are set to host the Columbus Blue Jackets at the Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida, on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. EST. This matchup marks the first meeting between the two teams this season. Both squads are striving to improve their standings within their respective divisions, making this game crucial for their playoff aspirations. (espn.com)
Season Snapshot
Florida Panthers
The Panthers currently hold a record of 12 wins, 12 losses, and 2 overtime losses, placing them in the middle of the Atlantic Division standings. At home, they have an 8-6-2 record. Their performance has been inconsistent, with a recent stretch of 4 wins, 5 losses, and 1 overtime loss in their last 10 games. During this period, they have averaged 3.4 goals per game while allowing 3 goals per game. (espn.com)
Columbus Blue Jackets
The Blue Jackets have a record of 13 wins, 9 losses, and 5 overtime losses, positioning them in the Metropolitan Division. On the road, they have a 7-6-2 record. Over their last 10 games, they have achieved 4 wins, 2 losses, and 4 overtime losses, averaging 2.7 goals scored and 3.4 goals allowed per game. (espn.com)
Recent Form
Florida Panthers
In their most recent game on December 5, 2025, the Panthers secured a 7-5 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers. Matthew Tkachuk led the team with a five-point performance, including a goal and four assists. Sam Reinhart scored the game-winning goal on a power play with under two minutes remaining, tying him for the league lead in goals. (reuters.com)
Columbus Blue Jackets
The Blue Jackets also played on December 5, 2025, edging out the Detroit Red Wings 6-5 in a shootout. Adam Fantilli was instrumental, scoring two goals, including the game-tying goal with 1:31 left in regulation. Kent Johnson and Kirill Marchenko each scored in regulation and the shootout, contributing to the win. (reuters.com)
Talking Points
- Panthers' Offensive Surge: Can Florida's high-scoring performance against the Flyers carry over into this matchup?
- Blue Jackets' Resilience: After a dramatic shootout win, will Columbus maintain their momentum on the road?
- Special Teams Battle: Both teams have shown effectiveness on the power play; which unit will capitalize more?
- Goaltending Matchup: With both teams having capable goalies, who will step up to make the crucial saves?
- Playoff Implications: How will this game impact the playoff race in their respective divisions?
Players to Watch
- Matthew Tkachuk (Florida Panthers): Coming off a five-point game, Tkachuk's playmaking and scoring abilities are pivotal for the Panthers.
- Sam Reinhart (Florida Panthers): Tied for the league lead in goals, Reinhart's scoring touch is a key asset.
- Adam Fantilli (Columbus Blue Jackets): His two-goal performance in the shootout win highlights his offensive potential.
- Kent Johnson (Columbus Blue Jackets): Scored in both regulation and the shootout against Detroit, showcasing his clutch play.
- Sergei Bobrovsky (Florida Panthers): The veteran goaltender's experience and recent shutouts make him a formidable presence.
Key Matchups & Storylines
- Offensive Firepower vs. Defensive Stability: Florida's high-scoring offense faces Columbus's defensive strategies; which will prevail?
- Special Teams Showdown: Both teams have potent power plays; which unit will dominate the man-advantage situations?
- Goaltending Duel: Bobrovsky's experience against the youthful energy of Columbus's forwards presents an intriguing dynamic.
Fun Facts
- The Panthers have won 14 of the last 16 matchups against the Blue Jackets. (reuters.com)
- Sergei Bobrovsky's recent shutout moved him into a tie for 10th on the NHL's career wins list. (espn.com)
- Sam Reinhart's game-winning goal against the Flyers tied him for the league lead in goals. (reuters.com)
Things to Chirp About
- "Can the Panthers' offense keep up their high-scoring ways against the Blue Jackets?"
- "Will Bobrovsky's experience be the difference-maker in this matchup?"
- "How will the Blue Jackets' young stars perform on the road?"
- "Is Reinhart's goal-scoring streak sustainable for the rest of the season?"
Prediction
The Florida Panthers, bolstered by their recent offensive surge and home-ice advantage, are likely to edge out the Columbus Blue Jackets in a closely contested game. While both teams have shown resilience, Florida's depth and experience may prove decisive.