Last time Columbus visited Calgary, they saw Phaneuf get thrown out for a hit from behind, Roy making throating slitting gestures, and Regehr cross checking Dorse in the face. If anyone thinks this game will not be full of emotion, you might want to rethink.
This could come as a positive. The Jackets have played some seriously uninspired hockey over the last couple games, and a rock em sock em game like this one could be exactly what they need to get back on track.
While Calgary is quite far ahead in the standings, Columbus likes to play well against big name teams. Maybe it is the daunting task of slaying the giant, but I am starting to wonder if they are better off finishing 8th rather than 4th.
The big disappointment for me tonight is that we will not be seeing Gratton play. Chimera was cleared to play after struggling with a groin injury, which means Hitch ‘decided’ that Gratton needed a few more practices before joining the game time roster. If he was smart, he would give Murray or Peca the night off to see what Grats can do. Murray does not seem to be much more than a neutral body on the ice, not making anything happen, but also not allowing anything to happen. In Peca’s case, I think giving him a game off would remind him that his ‘veteran’ presence is not enough. He needs to be more prolific on the ice, whether it is with or without the puck.
Finally, to our netminder. I said this yesterday, and I will say it again today, Mason has to be better than average.
Carry the Flag!
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