The NHL matchup on Thursday night features the Vegas Golden Knights hosting the Columbus Blue Jackets at T-Mobile Arena, scheduled to begin at 10 p.m. ET and broadcast live on ESPN+. The Golden Knights enter this game with a record of 18 wins, 11 losses, and 12 overtime losses, placing them fourth in the Western Conference with a total of 48 points. Meanwhile, the Blue Jackets, with a record of 18 wins, 17 losses, and 7 overtime losses, are sitting at the 16th position in the Eastern Conference, accumulating 43 points so far this season.
In terms of injuries, the Golden Knights will be without several key players, including Shea Theodore (upper body), Adin Hill (lower body), William Karlsson (lower body), and Brayden McNabb (upper body). The Blue Jackets also face challenges with their lineup as Isac Lundestrom (lower body), Erik Gudbranson (hip), Mason Marchment (upper body), Brendan Smith (leg), and Miles Wood (leg) are all sidelined.
Statistically, Jack Eichel is having a standout season for the Golden Knights, boasting 43 points through 34 games with 12 goals and 31 assists. For Columbus, Zach Werenski leads the charge with 45 points, having netted 16 goals and contributed 29 assists. On the defensive end, Akira Schmid has recorded a goals-against average of 2.52 with 429 saves, while Jet Greaves has made 776 saves with a save percentage of .910.
This thrilling game is one to watch as both teams look to solidify their standings in their respective conferences. The current situation may give the Golden Knights an advantage, but with several injuries plaguing both teams, fans can expect an unpredictable and exciting match-up.