The Columbus Blue Jackets are set to face off against the Seattle Kraken in an exciting matchup tonight at 10 p.m. ET. Both teams come into the game with similar records, as the Blue Jackets sit at 7-7-1 while the Kraken boast a record of 7-4-4.
The Blue Jackets are dealing with a few injuries and illnesses as they prepare for the game. Notably, forwards Cole Sillinger and Miles Wood are sidelined due to illness, leaving the team looking to adjust its lineup. Boone Jenner has been moved to the top line and shone in a recent performance against the Edmonton Oilers, contributing a goal and an assist despite the team’s 5-4 overtime loss. Expected in Columbus’s lineup tonight are Dmitri Voronkov, Adam Fantilli, and Kirill Marchenko, who will support Jenner alongside Sean Monahan and Kent Johnson.
On the defensive side, the Blue Jackets’ top pairing will likely feature Zach Werenski and Ivan Provorov, with Denton Mateychuk and Damon Severson supporting them. Elvis Merzlikins is expected to start in goal, backed up by Jet Greaves.
The Kraken, on the other hand, still have to navigate injuries of their own. Forward Jared McCann remains out with a lower body injury, having missed the last 11 games. On the ice, Seattle’s forward lineup will include Jaden Schwartz, Matty Beniers, and Kaapo Kakko, while defensemen Vince Dunn and Adam Larsson are poised to form a solid pairing. With Matt Murray and Philipp Grubauer sharing goaltending duties, Seattle looks to strengthen their position in the standings.
In terms of strategy, the Blue Jackets’ recent upheavals due to injury may bolster opportunities for emerging players like Voronkov and Fantilli to make significant impacts. Meanwhile, the Kraken will be keen to capitalize on their home-ice advantage and maintain momentum in their quest for a playoff spot.
As both teams look to secure a crucial victory, fans can expect a high-energy matchup filled with speed and skill. The outcome of this game could have meaningful implications for both teams as the season progresses.