The Columbus Blue Jackets opened up their preseason with a pair of preseason wins against the Blues and Hurricanes, and will be looking to build on that tonight against the Penguins.
While the game obviously has no barring on the team's success in 2014-15, you can bet the Blue Jackets will have no problem getting up for tonight's game against Pittsburgh.
This, of course, is the first meeting since Columbus was eliminated from the playoffs last season.
Blue Jackets lines (via Rob Mixer): Scott Hartnell - Artem Anisimov - Oliver Bjorkstrand Brian Gibbons - Brandon Dubinsky - Josh Anderson Kerby Rychel - Michael Chaput - Cam Atkinson Sean Collins - T.J. Tynan - Corey Tropp
Jack Johnson - James Wisniewski Fedor Tyutin - Cody Goloubef Will Weber - Austin Madaisky
Sergei Bobrovsky (first 40) Oscar Dansk (final period)
Some things to watch:
- Oliver Bjorkstrand isn't the biggest of players and is known for his offensive prowess, but he had seven hits in his first preseason game. Obviously offense is more of his bag, but it seems he'll contribute in any way possible to try and make this team. He's a long shot, but we'll see.
- This is Scott Hartnell's first game as a Jacket, and it's against a rival he's all too familiar with. You can bet he'll be looking to make an impact.
- Brian Gibbons: making a good case to be on the opening night roster, and facing his former team. Expect some jump in his step.
- There's not really much room, but Josh Anderson has reportedly had a very good training camp. If he can string together some solid preseason performances, he could very well force his way onto the team.
- Cam Atkinson had a pair of goals in his first preseason game, and looks like he's ready to contribute even more offensive this season. It'll be interesting to see how he builds on his last performance.
- If the team wants to hold eight defensemen on their opening night roster, Cody Goloubef is a good bet with the way he's been playing.
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