HockeyHurricanes

Carolina Hurricanes Face Columbus Blue Jackets: Game Day Preview

3 months agoUS
Carolina Hurricanes Face Columbus Blue Jackets: Game Day PreviewSource: nhl.com
The Carolina Hurricanes are set to face the Columbus Blue Jackets on March 17, 2026, at Nationwide Arena. This Metropolitan Division matchup is crucial for the Hurricanes as they aim to solidify their lead in the division. The Blue Jackets, just outside a playoff spot, are looking to make their first playoff appearance since the 2019-20 season. Stay informed with the latest updates on projected lineups, injuries, and how to catch the action.

Key Insights

Svechnikov Expected to Play:: Andrei Svechnikov is likely to play after missing Monday's practice due to feeling unwell.

Gostisbehere Out:: Shayne Gostisbehere remains out with a lower-body injury, marking his fifth consecutive game sidelined.

Bussi in Net:: Brandon Bussi is scheduled to start in goal for the Hurricanes.

Blue Jackets' Key Players:: Zach Werenski leads the Blue Jackets with 68 points, while Kirill Marchenko has 25 goals.

Columbus' Playoff Push:: The Blue Jackets are determined to make the playoffs after missing out by a narrow margin last year.

Why this matters: This game is a critical test for the Hurricanes as they face a motivated Blue Jackets team vying for a playoff spot. A win would significantly boost Carolina's chances of securing the top spot in their division.

In-Depth Analysis

The Hurricanes (42-18-6) are coming off a win against the Tampa Bay Lightning and aim to maintain their momentum. The projected lineup includes Svechnikov, Aho, and Jarvis as the top forward line. On defense, Slavin and Chatfield are expected to pair up.

The Blue Jackets (34-21-11) are on a point streak, demonstrating their competitiveness. Jet Greaves is likely to start in goal for Columbus. Their offensive strength is driven by Werenski and Marchenko, making them a team the Hurricanes cannot underestimate.

Projected Lineups:

Hurricanes:

Forwards: Svechnikov - Aho - Jarvis, Hall - Stankoven - Blake, Ehlers - Staal - Martinook, Carrier - Jankowski - Robinson

Defense: Slavin - Chatfield, Miller - Walker, Reilly - Nikishin

Goaltender: Bussi

Blue Jackets: (Likely, based on available information)

Keep an eye on Werenski and Marchenko.

How to Watch:

The game starts at 7 PM ET. You can watch it on FanDuel Sports Network and stream it via the FanDuel Sports Network App/ESPN+. Radio coverage is available on 99.9 The Fan.

*Get tickets on StubHub?ref=yanuki.com.*

FAQs

Will Svechnikov play?

Yes, Andrei Svechnikov is expected to be in the lineup.

Is Gostisbehere playing?

No, Shayne Gostisbehere is out with a lower-body injury.

Who is starting in goal for the Hurricanes?

Brandon Bussi is the projected starting goaltender.

Where can I watch the game?

You can watch the game on FanDuel Sports Network or stream it on ESPN+.

Key Takeaways

The Hurricanes need to be sharp against a Blue Jackets team fighting for a playoff spot. Keep an eye on key players like Svechnikov and Werenski. The game's outcome will significantly impact Carolina's position in the Metropolitan Division. Make sure to catch the game on FanDuel Sports Network or ESPN+!

Discussion

Do you think the Hurricanes will maintain their lead in the division? Let us know your predictions! Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!

Related Articles

⚠ Disclaimer: Yanuki provides article summaries and links for reference only. Yanuki does not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy of third-party sources. Please review original sources and verify information independently. Managed by the Yanuki Data Engine. Full Disclaimer