Game 43 Preview: Avalanche in Ohio

The 2009 calendar year had its ups and downs, the team made the playoffs for the first time ever, but they also experienced major disappointment this past fall. The team is not in good shape right now, sitting in the Western Conference cellar. Can 2010 be different?

The Jackets are going to scratch Mike Commodore again. This is a good move because he has seemingly been going through the motions. The more games he misses, the more he is going to be pissed off. A pissed off Big Red has the potential to be a great defenseman. I think the only thing keeping Juice in the lineup is the fact that at any moment he can start scoring again.

The big line from last game, Raffi, Vermmy and Jake are back together. Umby should go tonight after not practicing. He’s playing through injury, it just goes to show how much character he has. It’s Mase’s net tonight. Time to take the reigns and run with the starter’s job Mase.

The Avs are such a surprise. Will they ever come back down to earth?

Fearless Prediction : The Jackets start the 2010 year off with a bang- a big victory over the Avs.

Game Time: 7:00pm ET

Opponent’s Blog: Mile High Hockey

Game Page: Avalanche vs Blue Jackets Coverage

TV: FSN

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

More after the jump…

From the Columbus Dispatch:

The Avalanche blasted the Blue Jackets two weeks ago, riding a four-goal first period to a 5-2 win. Can the Blue Jackets score two goals? Three? They have gone five games with one goal, nine games with no more than two, tying a franchise record.

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

Colorado Avalanche