Game 74 Preview: Jackets Return Home to Face the ‘Hawks

The Jackets are back in Columbus after a brief road trip with stops in Nashville and New Jersey. Tonight the Jackets take on the division-leading Blackhawks. The Jackets need to avoid getting into a shootout situation with the Hawks again, trading goals back and forth throughout the game has not, and will not end in the Jackets’ favor. Chicago has too much firepower.

No major lineup moves, but Jared Boll is out tonight after injuring his hand against Alphabet Leblond in New Jersey. Look for Nathan Paetsch to go in his spot on the fourth line. Mase gets the start against Huet.

Fearless Prediction: The Jackets steal one from the ‘Hawks in a high-scoring affair.

Game Time: 7:00pm ET

Opponent’s Blog: Second City Hockey

Game Page: Blackhawks vs Blue Jackets coverage

TSN Preview: Blackhawks vs Blue Jackets preview

TV: FSN

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

More after the jump…

From the Columbus Dispatch:

The Blackhawks have won all four meetings this season, assuring the Blue Jackets will lose the season series for the first time since 2002-03. The Blue Jackets’ slumping power play has another concern in this game. The Blackhawks have 10 short-handed goals, most in the NHL.

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

Chicago Blackhawks