The Blue Jackets kick off their first California swing tonight in San Jose against the Sharks. The belief seems to be that Curtis Sanford is going in goal tonight, so his health will of course be a question. It also may help the Jackets' defense, as they seem to be less timid and damaged with The Sandman back there.

Not that it really matters...

This Jackets team needs to figure out how to score goals. They're 0-fer on the Power Play in their last four games. Their PK is an albatross. We've documented the 4-on-4 issues. That leaves 5-on-5. If Columbus wants to compete against a hot Sharks team, they're going to have to score at even strength.

Nikita Nikitin is also back tonight after missing the last game with the flu. Get the No-Doz; this one is a late, late start for us in the east. I can't imagine Mike, what with his moon-man Halifax "Atlantic" Time, will be up watching this one.