With the training camp roster finally below 30, the Columbus Blue Jackets lineup tonight looked very close to the probable opening night 18. St. Louis was sending their backup goalie and few of their regular defensemen. In addition, the Blues’ plane was delayed in leaving, so even with the start time pushed back an hour, they arrived just 45 minutes before the opening puck drop. Everything was aligning for the Jackets to have a big game, and they capitalized on the opportunity.
First period
It didn’t take long to get things started. The top line (Laine/Jenner/Gaudreau) and top pair (Werenski/Boqvist) won the opening faceoff and immediately swarmed the offensive zone.