Game 7 (X) Preview: Jackets Rematch Against the Wild

For an exhibition game, this matchup has some added intrigue.

This is the second time the Wild and Jackets will square off this preseason, and if the first game, and past history, is any indication this will be a chippy affair. James Wisniewski and Cal Clutterbuck were involved in the incident that led to Wiz’s suspension last game, and I’m anxious to see if Clutterbuck will be in for a long night. I’m not saying that he’ll be targeted- you know Sheriff Shanny has his eyes on this game- but I’m sure the Jackets will make sure to add a little extra if they meet Clusterfuzz is the corners.

The Jackets are 3-2-1 this preseason, and the Wild sit at 3-2-0. The home fans in Columbus will get a look at a roster that will be fairly close to the one that takes to the ice for the home opener against the Preds.

At this point I’ll rely on yesterday’s practice lineup as an indicator of what the lines for the game will look like. Tomas Kubalik, back to the lineup after suffering a concussion, will get another shot on a line with Nash and Carter. His first shot at playing with these guys only lasted a few seconds, so it will be very interesting to see what he can do with the opportunity.

Vinny Prospal and Antoine Vermette should be playing on a line with Cam Atkinson, and given the injury to Matt Calvert, this could be a chance for Atkinson to make the big club, at least for the short term. If Kubalik plays well enough with the big boys, and Atkinson shines, you could see the top two right wingers be rookies. I bet you didn’t see that coming a few weeks ago?

One line to key on tonight- Maksim Mayorov playing right wing with Sammy Pahlsson and Derek Dorsett. Mayorov has been a stud in camp, and if he makes the team it will likely be in the bottom six, playing on this very line in a checking role.

Check after the jump for the full expected lineup. We’ll update any changes in the Game thread later this evening.

Columbus Blue Jackets

Minnesota Wild (Subject to Change)