The Columbus Blue Jackets will face off against the Florida Panthers in NHL action on Thursday, starting at 7 p.m. ET at Nationwide Arena. This matchup features the Blue Jackets sitting in ninth place and the Panthers in fifteenth in the Eastern Conference standings. Fans can catch the game live on ESPN+.
As the teams prepare for the game, a look at the injury reports reveals some key absences. For the Blue Jackets, defenseman Brendan Smith will be out due to a leg injury, while Zachary Werenski and Boone Jenner are listed as day-to-day with illness and a lower body issue, respectively. The Panthers are also facing challenges, with forwards Aleksander Barkov Jr., Jonah Gadjovich, Cole Schwindt, and defenseman Seth Jones all ruled out with various injuries.
In terms of performance stats, Zachary Werenski has been a standout for the Blue Jackets with 65 points in 54 games, comprising 20 goals and 45 assists. On the goaltending side, Jet Greaves has a goals-against average of 2.65, having allowed 102 goals and recorded 1,008 saves this season.
For the Panthers, Sam Reinhart has also had a notable season with 57 points, averaging 0.9 points per game through 61 games, while Sergei Bobrovsky has made 889 saves but has struggled with a goals-against average of 3.1 and an .872 save percentage, ranking him 63rd in the league.
As both teams look to secure a vital win, the matchup is expected to be competitive, showcasing key players and the resilience of the squads amid injury challenges. This game provides an exciting opportunity for fans to witness the skill and determination of both teams as they vie for a playoff spot.