The upcoming matchup between the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Pittsburgh Penguins is set for 7 p.m. ET. Both teams have shown competitive spirit this season, with the Blue Jackets holding a record of 21 wins, 19 losses, and 7 overtime losses. Meanwhile, the Penguins boast a record of 22 wins, 14 losses, and 10 overtime losses.
Projected Lineups for the Game
Columbus Blue Jackets
- Cole Sillinger – Adam Fantilli – Kirill Marchenko
- Boone Jenner – Sean Monahan – Kent Johnson
- Dimitri Voronkov – Charlie Coyle – Mathieu Olivier
- Zach Aston-Reese – Brendan Gaunce – Mikael Pyyhtia
- Zach Werenski – Dante Fabbro
- Ivan Provorov – Damon Severson
- Egor Zamula – Erik Gudbranson
- Elvis Merzlikins (starting goalie)
- Jet Greaves (backup goalie)
Scratched players include Dysin Mayo, Danton Heinen, and Jake Christiansen. Injuries affect Isac Lundestrom, Brendan Smith, Miles Wood, Mason Marchment, and Denton Mateychuk.
Pittsburgh Penguins
- Rickard Rakell – Sidney Crosby – Bryan Rust
- Egor Chinakhov – Tommy Novak – Evgeni Malkin
- Anthony Mantha – Ben Kindel – Justin Brazeau
- Connor Dewar – Blake Lizotte – Noel Acciari
- Brett Kulak – Kris Letang
- Parker Wotherspoon – Jack St. Ivany
- Ryan Shea – Connor Clifton
- Arturs Silovs (starting goalie)
- Stuart Skinner (backup goalie)
Kevin Hayes and Ryan Graves are scratched due to performance decisions, while Erik Karlsson, Rutger McGroarty, Caleb Jones, and Filip Hallander are injured.
Game Analysis and Expectations
The Blue Jackets welcome back Zach Aston-Reese and Egor Zamula after recent healthy scratches. Aston-Reese replaces Danton Heinen, while Zamula steps in for Jake Christiansen. Elvis Merzlikins is expected to take the net again, having recently achieved a commendable performance against the Canucks.
The Penguins are anticipated to make little change from their victory over the Philadelphia Flyers. Goalie Arturs Silovs is likely to maintain his position after a strong show. Fans can expect high-stakes action as both teams vie for crucial points.
This matchup promises thrilling hockey, with both teams eager to secure a win. The Blue Jackets aim to leverage their home advantage, while the Penguins look to continue their strong performance on the road.
