Columbus Blue Jackets host Toronto Maple Leafs in NHL clash at Nationwide Arena

NHL regular season action on Tuesday

The Columbus Blue Jackets will host the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, at Nationwide Arena in Columbus. The puck drops at 23:00 UTC for this NHL regular season fixture. Both teams currently find themselves in the lower half of the standings, with Columbus 15th and Toronto 13th, making this a crucial game for either side to climb the table.

Standings and points gap

After seven games played, Columbus has accumulated six points from three wins and four losses, scoring 18 goals and conceding 23, leaving them with a goal difference of minus five. Toronto, slightly better placed in 13th after nine matches, has secured eight points with three wins and four losses, netting 29 goals but conceding 32, resulting in a goal difference of minus three. The two teams are separated by a mere two points, adding extra intensity to this encounter.

Recent form and goal trends

Columbus have had a mixed run in their last five games, winning twice and losing three times. They scored 11 goals across these matches, averaging 2.2 goals per game, but conceded 16, allowing 3.2 goals per game. Their most recent fixtures include a narrow 1-2 away loss to Minnesota Wild on 18 October and a 1-0 home victory over New York Rangers on 17 October. Notably, they suffered a heavy 3-7 defeat at home against Florida Panthers on 13 October.

Toronto's recent form has been less encouraging, with just one win and four losses in their last five games. They have scored 18 goals at an average of 3.6 per game but conceded 21, which is 4.2 goals against per game. Their latest results feature a 1-4 home loss to New York Islanders on 17 October and a tight 4-5 home defeat against Buffalo Sabres on 15 October. Their sole win in this period was a 6-3 away victory over Colorado Avalanche on 10 October.

Head-to-head and expectations

Both teams have struggled defensively in recent outings, conceding over three goals per game. Considering their close proximity in the standings and recent form, this match could be a tightly contested encounter with potential for goals from either side. Columbus may benefit from home advantage at Nationwide Arena, which could give them a slight edge in a close battle. Toronto will be eager to bounce back from recent defeats and could look to leverage their slightly better goal-scoring record to gain maximum points.

Where to watch the game

Fans in the United States can catch all the action live on ESPN+ and CBJNHL. The game promises to deliver exciting NHL ice hockey with both teams looking to improve their league position.

Where the teams stand

Recent form