The Detroit Red Wings host the Columbus Blue Jackets after Simon Edvinsson's two-goal game against the Minnesota Wild in the Red Wings' 3-2 win.

Trending: Detroit swept the season series a year ago and dealt Columbus a heartbreaker in the first meeting of the year, scoring in the final minute to take a 5-4 win on Jan. 2. The Blue Jackets went 17-5-1 against their northern neighbors from 2017-22 but are 1-5-1 the past two-plus years.

Analyzing Thursday’s Columbus Blue Jackets at Detroit Red Wings odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

James van Riemsdyk scored twice and the Columbus Blue Jackets beat the Detroit Red Wings 5-2 in a matchup of playoff contenders.

Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell has been pushing to add an impact forward who could help the team through its playoff push.

Head coach Dean Evason and a handful of CBJ players have taken part in previous NHL events ahead of the NHL Stadium Series game Saturday

On Christmas, the Detroit Red Wings were 13-18-4. Back then, no one would have guessed that the home-and-home series these two teams will play this week would have a significant impact on the Eastern Conference race.

It's safe to check the NHL standings. The out-of-town scoreboard is of interest. The Blue Jackets are now in the throes of a playoff race.

On a lively Saturday night in Columbus, the Blue Jackets rejoined the NHL playoff race, the Crew got their MLS season underway, and Chicago lost.