The Columbus Blue Jackets are getting some help for their second home game out of four.
Justin Danforth is back on the ice after being activated from injured reserve, while Dylan Gambrell heads to the Cleveland Monsters in the AHL after clearing waivers. Earlier reports by Brian Hedger indicated that Danforth would play against the Buffalo Sabres, and Jack Johnson would take David Jiricek’s spot due to Erik Gudbranson’s absence.
Danforth missed all preseason games because of a wrist injury but will make his season debut tonight. This marks his fourth year with the team since joining from the Kontinental Hockey League in 2021. Last year was his best yet, even though the team didn’t do well . He scored 10 goals and got 26 points over 71 games, playing about 14 minutes each night, making him the team’s 12th highest scorer. He’ll be on right wing beside James van Riemsdyk and Adam Fantilli in tonight’s game against the Sabres. So far this season, these two haven’t been at their best with a combined expected goals for of 2.4 and expected goals against of 3.8.
Fans’ Thoughts:
Fans might be wondering if this new lineup will bring better results for the team.
Despite some challenges early on, there’s hope that adding Danforth could shake things up positively for Columbus. Sometimes change is just what a team needs to find its rhythm again.
What do you think about these changes?
