The Columbus Blue Jackets are set to begin their Western Canadian tour with a matchup against the Calgary Flames. The game offers a chance for the Blue Jackets to continue building on their recent successes, despite some injury setbacks.
Roster Updates for the Blue Jackets
Recently, the team faced several scratches, including Yegor Chinakhov and Erik Gudbranson, who is dealing with an upper body injury. Denton Mateychuk is also unavailable, but indications suggest he may return to the lineup on Saturday against Vancouver.
In exciting news, defenseman Mayo will be making his Blue Jackets debut and his first NHL appearance since February 2023. Additionally, Fabbro is set to move up to pair with Werenski on the defensive line.
This Day in Blue Jackets History
On November 5, 2002, Geoff Sanderson scored in an overtime loss against the Washington Capitals at Nationwide Arena. Sanderson went on to score in seven consecutive games, a record later matched by Cam Atkinson in 2018. Five years later, on the same date in 2015, the Blue Jackets achieved a 3-2 win over Los Angeles, despite not registering any shots on goal during the second period.
Blue Jackets Performance Metrics
- Defensemen have scored in nine of the first twelve games of the season.
- The team leads the NHL with 11 goals from defensemen.
- Zach Werenski boasts impressive stats: four goals, 10 points, and a plus/minus of plus-9.
- Kirill Marchenko has points in 10 of 12 games, with a current streak of five consecutive games with an assist.
- Jet Greaves is fifth among goalies with a save percentage of .916.
Challenges Facing the Calgary Flames
The Calgary Flames, currently facing difficulties, have struggled since losing key players Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew Tkachuk, resulting in three consecutive missed playoff seasons. The team ranks last in scoring this season with an average of only 2.14 goals per game.
Flames’ Key Players
- Nazem Kadri leads the Flames with a record of 3 goals and 7 assists.
- Blake Coleman has netted five goals thus far, while Jonathan Huberdeau trails with four goals and seven points.
In Goal for Calgary
Dustin Wolf, who finished second in Calder Trophy voting the prior year, has experienced a tough season with a 3-8-1 record. Meanwhile, Devin Cooley has shown promise with a 1.98 goals-against average.
Looking Ahead
The matchup promises to be crucial for both teams as they battle for momentum. The Blue Jackets hope to leverage their offensive strength and strong defensive plays against a struggling Flames squad. The game will take place at the Saddledome, a venue that has historically proven challenging for the Blue Jackets, who have struggled in recent visits.
