The Hurricanes come to Nationwide Arena in the midst of an 11 game losing streak. They now have the lowest point total in the NHL due to their last defeat last night to the Maple Leafs 3-2. Zach Boychuk made his season debut last night and will probably be on the 2nd line tonight as the Canes look for an offensive punch. The 2008 first round (14th overall) selection of Carolina has yet to register a point in 3 NHL games but they are hoping he will find some of his scoring touch from juniors.

Boychuk played for the Lethbridge Hurricanes of the WHL where he scored 271 points in 235 regular season games. Why the Canes are looking for offense where ever they can find it is due to the absence of Eric Staal and former Blue Jacket Ray Whitney who are the Canes top 2 scorers.

But beware Columbus Blue Jackets, the most dangerous animals are wounded animals. Ask the Capitals last year when the Blue Jackets put out a glorified AHL team and shutout the offensive powerhouse. The same could happen to the men of blue.

Especially this young team that seems to play to the competition level that's in front of them and is sporting their own injuries. Kristian Huselius will be out as he has been added to the injured reserve list and what seems to always be a game time decision on Mike Commodore who seems to be having more problems than a math book when it comes to getting on the ice due to injuries.

Rick Nash needs to continue to lead by example and lead the way scoring as he is on pace for 115 points this year. 10 goals and 11 assists in 15 games and at times looks like a man among boys in games. Case in point was the hesitation move he put on Mike Green that made him look silly as he went in and scored. No player 6'4" and 230 pounds should have the speed and the soft hands that he has. He is off to what could and should be his best offensive year this year but most are talking about his defensive prowess and mentions of Selke considerations are being heard.

Prediction For Tonight's Game:

Blue Jackets 5 - Hurricanes 2 --- The Hurricanes are hurting both physically and mentally as an 11 game losing streak would shake any locker room. Add to that, the Canes will be playing the 2nd game of a back to back and the formula doesn't look good for them. Also, I am expecting a light crowd tonight as the Buckeyes don't kick off until 3:30 tonight against Penn State and will keep several fans at home. If the building is quiet and the team loses interest, the score could reverse from my prediction but I just can't see it tonight.

Happy Birthday to Mike Commodore - Commie turns 30 today and will look to celebrate against the Canes as he should be back in the lineup tonight.

Live In Game Blog From The Press Box Starting at 7pm



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Eric Smith
Eric.Smith@HockeyBuzz.com

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