Game 41 Preview: A Rare Visit to Long Island

Man does it feel good to win! The Jackets pulled off the 1-0 victory against Detroit last night, and they look to continue their winning ways tonight against the Islanders. It’s the second of a back-to-back, but Columbus should have a spring in their step because the two new guys- Clark and Jurcina- are good to go tonight.

The projected lines are in flux yet again, but I love the look of the third line. Clark will fit in great with Freddy and Sammy. The Isles have some skill up front, and it will need to be contained. A surprising move for the Jackets tonight- Mike Commodore is expected to be a healthy scratch. That’s sending a message! I mean honestly, are you going to bench Roy with the way he has been playing? Not a chance. Steve Mason gets the start tonight.

Fearless Prediction : Mase builds off of his strong start against the Wings, the new guys make an impact (in some form or another)

Game Time: 7:00pm ET

Opponent’s Blog: Lighthouse Hockey

Game Page: Blue Jackets vs Islanders Coverage

TSN Preview: Blue Jackets vs Islanders Preview

TV: FSN

Radio: WBNS-AM (1460); WWCD-FM (101.1)

More after the jump…

From the Columbus Dispatch:

The Blue Jackets should have newly-acquired defenseman Milan Jurcina and forward Chris Clark available, and it will be interesting to see where they are plugged into the lineup. The last trip to Long Island (Nov. 3, 2008) was Fredrik Norrena‘s last game as a Blue Jacket.

Jackets Links:

Columbus Blue Jackets / Columbus Blue Jackets Schedule

Columbus Blue Jackets Roster / Columbus Blue Jackets Stats

Here are the lineups for tonight’s tilt:

Columbus Blue Jackets

New York Islanders