Game 51 Preview: Jackets look to bounce back against the Blues
All things considered, the Jackets played pretty well last game against Chicago. Sure they let in a pair of third period goals that sealed their fate, but it was at least fun to watch the boys score more than a goal or two. The question then becomes, will the coaching staff allow the Jackets to be more free-wheeling in the offensive zone? They played that way against Chicago on Saturday but still let in more goals than they scored. When they play it safe, they get outscored. Who knows what style this team needs to play to win. Hard to say how the team will play tonight, but one thing is certain, it will be a rough and tumble game.
Freddy Modin returns tonight, and Matt Garon is back in the net. Look for Juice2 (Jurcina) to take a seat in the pressbox, Roy will go in his place. I'm looking for Brass and Jake to have big games tonight. The top line will almost assuredly be checked hard, so that should open things up for the second line. Having Juice on the third line could be a blessing in disguise, as he should be left alone (relatively speaking) to dangle around.
Fearless Prediction: The Jackets are prepared for the Blues this time, this is going to be a physical affair!
Game Time: 7:00pm ET
Opponent's Blog: St. Louis Game Time
Game Page: Blues vs Blue Jackets coverage
TSN Preview: Blues vs Blue Jackets preview
TV: FSN
Radio: WBNS-AM (1460); WWCD-FM (101.1)
More after the jump...
From the Columbus Dispatch:
Will the Blue Jackets be able to counteract the Blues' physical style? It overwhelmed them six days ago in St. Louis, a 4-1 loss. The Blue Jackets are 1-5-2 in their past eight games against Central Division opponents. After a slow start under new coach Davis Payne, the Blues have won a season-high four in a row.
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
| R.J. Umberger | Antoine Vermette | Rick Nash |
| Raffi Torres | Derick Brassard | Jakub Voracek |
| Kristian Huselius | Samuel Pahlsson | Chris Clark |
| Fredrik Modin | Derek Dorsett | Jared Boll |
| Fedor Tyutin | Anton Stralman |
| Mathieu Garon | Kris Russell |
| Jan Hejda | Mike Commodore |
| Mathieu Garon |
| Steve Mason |
| EXTRA: Andrew Murray, Milan Jurcina |
| INJURED: Marc Methot, Rostislav Klesla |
| Paul Kariya | David Backes | T.J. Oshie |
| Andy McDonald | Patrik Berglund | David Perron |
| Alexander Steen | Jay McClement | Brad Boyes |
| Brad Winchester | Keith Tkachuk | B.J. Crombeen |
| Barrett Jackman | Roman Polak |
| Eric Brewer | Erik Johnson |
| Carlo Colaiacovo | Mike Weaver |
| Chris Mason |
| Ty Conklin |