Game 70 Preview: Battle of the Western Conference Cellar-Dwellars

his game is one of those hockey games where late in the season two teams are playing for pride, and nothing more. They aren’t close in the standings, yet they are the two worst teams in the Western Conference. There’s no jockeying for position. That said, I always like playing the Oil. I find them fun to watch, especially Gagner.

It’s hard to imagine this game being a high-scoring affair, but given the names on the Oilers blueline and the fact Columbus’ achilles heel all season has been poor defensive play this one could be a shootout. Rick Nash is out again for the Jackets, this time with the flu. Juice is going to give it another go however.

The battle between the pipes at this point looks to be between Steve Mason and Jeff Deslauriers. Mase needs to get back on track and finish the season strong, it will only help him going into next season.

Fearless Prediction: Gilbert Brule scores for the Oil, ‘jus cuz.

Game Time: 7:00pm ET

Opponent’s Blog: The Copper & Blue

Game Page: Oilers vs Blue Jackets coverage

TSN Preview: Oilers vs Blue Jackets preview

TV: FSN

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

More after the jump…

From the Columbus Dispatch:

Both teams are without their top offensive talents. The Blue Jackets’ Rick Nash is out because of the flu, while Ales Hemsky of the Oilers has been out since November because of a shoulder injury. The Oilers are 1-14-1 on the road since mid-December, including a 6-4 loss in Toronto on Saturday.

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

Edmonton Oilers