Game #4 Preview: Jackets get second go at home opener

Thursday, October 17, 2024 – 7:00 p.m. EDT
Nationwide Arena – Columbus, Ohio
TV: Bally Sports Ohio; Radio: 97.1 FM
Enemy location: Die by the blade

Buffalo Sabers (1-3-0, 2 points, 8th Atlantic, 16th East)

at

Columbus Blue Jackets (1-2-0, 2 points, 8th Metro, 14th East)

The traditional home opening festivities were put on hold Tuesday evening in favor of a beautiful ceremony and tribute to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau and their family. Unfortunately, the Jackets were unable to get a win despite playing very well. Tonight the stage is set for a second attempt to win their “home opener.”

Players to watch

Chinakhov-Monahan-Marchenko

Columbus' first team has been impressive so far, going a combined 4-9-13 in just three games. At 5v5 they were dominant in terms of possession and creating chances. In three games they had a total of 16 individual scoring chances and 20 shots on goal. Can they continue their high level of play against the Sabres?

Notes on jackets

Gudbranson is now on IR after an apparent wrist or arm injury. We hope for the best, but it wouldn't be a surprise if he's out long-term… Hopefully Jiricek will fill in for Gudbranson… Jet Greaves was called up from Cleveland with Merzlikins out with a short-term upper body injury… Gambrell was granted waivers yesterday to make room for Greaves . This likely indicates that Danforth is close to returning from injury.

The other bank

The Sabers looked great in the preseason, but started the regular season 1-3-0. They've struggled to score and are 0-for-14 on the power play. But watch for Levi to be the starter – he has a .919 save percentage in two starts.

Season series

10/17/2024 BUF @ CBJ
04/02/2025 CBJ @ BUF
04/10/2025 BUF @ CBJ

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Projected lines

Columbus Blue Jackets

Buffalo saber