Game 59 Preview: Un-Hitched Jackets face on the Stars

Hitch is out, Claude Noel is in. This will be the first game with Noel at the helm of the Jackets. The opponent tonight is the Dallas Stars, who are struggling on the road. Combine that fact with the way teams usually respond to a coaching change, and this game looks good for the Jackets.

Steve Mason gets the start tonight, likely against Marty Turco. I doubt Noel will shuffle the lines very much, but personally I’d like to see Jurcina get back in the lineup in place of Methot. I’m eager to see how the young guys respond tonight, I’m thinking they will have very good games down the stretch.

As usual against Dallas, this game will likely be chippy. You know Dors will be nice and pissed tonight.

Fearless Prediction: As is the case with most coach firings, the Jackets will come out inspired and will win tonight.

Game Time: 7:00pm ET

Opponent’s Blog: Defending Big D

Game Page: Stars vs Blue Jackets coverage

TSN Preview: Stars vs Blue Jackets preview

TV: FSN

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

More after the jump…

From the Columbus Dispatch:

Claude Noel will work his first game as Blue Jackets interim coach. Four of the Blue Jackets’ seven goals against the Stars this season have come on the power play. The Stars are 1-9-2 on the road since Dec. 11, the only win coming against hapless Edmonton.

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

Dallas Stars