Game Prediction
This game, like many the Jackets play, is going to come down to whether Bob can outplay the opposing goalie. Tuuka Rask is a top 10 goalie in the NHL, no doubt. He has proven that over the last few NHL seasons and can shut down an opposing team.
The Jackets are having trouble manufacturing offense. They have only scored three goals in the last two games. Granted, Jake Allen played fantastic and Steve Mason made some big saves as well.
But the power play is still a concern and the goals just aren’t coming. It isn’t going to be any easier to produce goals with Cam Atkinson injured.
That said the Jackets have been in Columbus for a few days and know they have a tough road trip ahead of them. The need these points to get off to a good start and will come out ready to play. Their typical first period sluggishness won’t hamper them tonight and they will come out firing.
I see the Jackets really taking it to Rask and chasing him from the ice. Big Jackets win 5-1 tonight in Nationwide Arena.