Hurricanes vs. Blue Jackets: Preview, Lines, and How to Watch the Game

The Carolina Hurricanes are set to face the Columbus Blue Jackets in a crucial game with six important Metropolitan Division points on the line, potentially defining their postseason aspirations. The game, which will be played at Nationwide Arena, marks the first step in a decisive period for both teams. The game is scheduled for 7:30 PM EDT and will be broadcast on ESPN+ and Hulu.

In their last game, the Hurricanes suffered a tough loss to the Montreal Canadiens, despite having 100 shot attempts, their highest of the season. The Canadiens blocked 32 shots, the most by any team this season, securing a 3-1 victory.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have experienced ups and downs recently, going from second place in the Metro Division to fighting for a wild-card spot. They have lost their last three games. In their game against the Boston Bruins, Mathieu Olivier sustained an upper-body injury. The team has recalled Luca Del Bel Belluz, suggesting Olivier might be unavailable for the game against the Hurricanes.

The team seeks to improve their position after a difficult week, hoping to secure a win that will allow them to advance in the standings.

Brandon Bussi is expected to be the starting goalie for the Hurricanes, with a save percentage of .894 and a goals-against average of 2.45. The Blue Jackets, on the other hand, might rely on Jet Greaves again, who has played 48 games this season, with a save percentage of .910 and a goals-against average of 2.56.

The expected lineups for the Hurricanes include Andrei Svechnikov, Sebastian Aho, and Seth Jarvis in the forward positions, while the Blue Jackets could line up Mason Marchment, Adam Fantilli, and Kirill Marchenko.

The Hurricanes have a 23.7% power play efficiency (9th in the league) and an 80.2% penalty kill (13th). The Blue Jackets have a 20.2% power play (17th) and a 77.3% penalty kill (25th).

The Hurricanes will play against the Blue Jackets on Tuesday at Nationwide Arena and again on Thursday at the Lenovo Center. Carolina is two points away from reaching a 100-point season. Last season, they finished with 99, ending a three-year streak with triple digits.

The game will be broadcast on ESPN+ and Hulu. For fans who prefer the radio, they can tune in to 99.9 The Fan.

This match is crucial for both teams in their quest to advance in the season and secure a playoff spot.