Today the NHL’s schedule was released and its time for us to mark our calendars and get ready to head to Nationwide. Hear are a few marquee games that you should keep an eye on this season.
OCT 11TH, 2014: NEW YORK RANGERS AT COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS:
This is the obvious game marked on everybody’s calendar because it is the home opener but the implications run much deeper. The Stanley Cup runners up are going to come in with a chip on their shoulder. Will they be able to replicate their late season success into something greater? Will they be able to hold onto all of their RFA’s? Will Ryan Johansen continue to make Henrik Lundqvist look like a fool? These questions will be answered and it is paramount for this Blue Jackets team to start this season on a high note. Expect a raucous crowd especially since the neighbors in town have a bye week.
OCT 18TH-26TH 2014: First Elongated Road Trip of the Season:
Starting on the 18th the Blue Jackets go to the capital city and play an Ottawa team that is completely content on not spending a dime this offseason. The real concern though starts after that when they make their west coast swing and play the Sharks, Ducks and Kings in that order. The Sharks may be in this pseudo rebuild but don’t expect a team that isn’t competitive in the West. The Ducks meanwhile are trying to pick up a number two center like their life depends on it so expect an improved team come next season. Do I really need to tell you what is so great about this Kings team? I’ve already talked about the early season expectations by Jarmo & Co this will test the resolve of a team who needs to compete with what will be an improved Metro division.
DEC 18TH-31ST 2014: LONGEST HOMESTAND OF THE SEASON:
As a hockey fan and as a player you are really going to enjoy this homestand. You play some of the best teams in the league and spend two weeks in beautiful Columbus, Ohio, does it get much better? Starting on the 18th they play the Capitals at home and go on to play the Blackhawks, Predators, Bruins and finish with the Wild on New Year’s Eve. The New Year’s Eve game is always a fun time around the Arena District and you always get a good show from the team and fans. Blackhawks and Bruins are not going to go away anytime soon so expect those top flight teams to come in and give the Jackets a run for their money.
FEBRUARY 14TH-22ND: LONGEST ROAD TRIP OF THE SEASON:
While not leaving the Eastern Time Zone for any of these games it should be noted that it doesn’t make this any easier. They will be playing four of their five home games against Metro opponents, playoff implications will be aplenty. Islanders, Flyers, Penguins, Canadiens and Rangers should make for fun games and will undoubtedly test the intestinal fortitude of players and fans alike.
I am sure after offseason moves are made and former players are returning to play in Nationwide those games will be marked on the calendar. It will be interesting to see what if any moves are made by this team. Regardless, the team should have sky high expectations; will they live up to it? Only time will tell.
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