COLUMBUS — The Columbus Blue Jackets return to Nationwide Arena on Tuesday night looking to snap a two-game losing streak when they host the Colorado Avalanche at 7 p.m. ET.

Columbus (5-7-0) is coming off a 3-1 loss to the Dallas Stars on Saturday, its second consecutive defeat following a pair of overtime victories against Vegas and Philadelphia. The Blue Jackets have struggled to generate consistent offense, scoring just three goals over their last two games.

Colorado (9-5-1), meanwhile, arrives in Columbus riding a three-game winning streak after defeating Chicago 5-2 on Monday night. Nazem Kadri and Jaden Schwartz scored twice each against the Blackhawks, helping the Avalanche overcome an early 2-0 deficit. Colorado has averaged five goals per game during its winning streak.

The Blue Jackets will have their hands full with a Colorado offense led by Nathan MacKinnon, who enters Tuesday with 25 points, including 16 assists. Artturi Lehkonen has also been dangerous around the net, scoring 12 goals, while defenseman Cale Makar has contributed 16 points.

For Columbus, Kent Johnson continues to lead the offensive attack with seven goals and 12 points through 12 games. Johnson has recorded at least one point in four consecutive contests, giving the Blue Jackets a reliable source of production during an otherwise inconsistent stretch.

Zach Werenski has also been productive, recording 10 assists while carrying a three-game point streak into Tuesday. The Blue Jackets will need their top players to create scoring opportunities against an Avalanche team that has been difficult to contain.

One encouraging development for Columbus is the return of defenseman Ivan Provorov, who made his season debut Saturday after missing the first 11 games with a lower-body injury. His presence gives the Blue Jackets another experienced option on the blue line as they prepare for Colorado's aggressive attack.

The Avalanche will also be playing on consecutive nights after Monday's victory in Chicago. Columbus has had two days off since its loss in Dallas, giving the Blue Jackets an opportunity to use their fresher legs to attack and apply pressure early and often.

For Columbus to win, it must improve its offensive production while limiting Colorado's opportunities in transition. Keeping MacKinnon and the Avalanche from finding open ice will be key to getting a win, as will getting traffic in front of Colorado's goaltender.

Game Information

Prediction

Colorado's offense will present a serious challenge, but the Blue Jackets should benefit from being home and having an extra day of rest. Expect a tight contest, with Columbus getting enough production from its top players and a strong defensive effort to pull out the victory.

Blue Jackets 3, Avalanche 2