Blue Jackets Shake Up Lineup for Montreal Showdown

0:00It's March 26, I'm Cory with the story, and this is NHL News today, your AI-powered team report. The Columbus Blue Jackets head into Montreal for a key match up against the Canadians on Thursday night, fresh off a 3-2 regulation win over. The Flyers on Tuesday, the two teams sit just one point apart in the standings, both holding playoff spots in their divisions. A Blue Jackets victory could shake up the Atlantic Division race, helping teams like the Bruins, Senators, and Redwings stay in the hunt. Meanwhile, head coach Rick Bownes is shaking up the lineup despite the recent win. Forward Miles Wood draws back in for Ken Johnson, pairing with Boone Jenner and Isaac Lunastrom on the fourth line. Jet Greve starts in net, while Danson Heinen slides into Johnson's spot on the second line. This move highlights Bownes' firm approach, especially after Johnson's line struggled against Philadelphia. The coach has worn players about accountability, and it shows the team's death with scratches like Demitri Varankov, Jay Christensen, and Igor.

1:02Zemoul is still waiting. Fans see it as a smart tweak for the Canadian speedy style. Beyond the top club, the organization boasts rare roster stability. No call-ups from the Cleveland Mastersons January, thanks to just 179 man games lost to injury. General manager Don Woodell keeps a steady 24-man roster with extras, letting both teams focus without disruptions. That consistency has fueled success for both squads heading into the playoffs, with the Masters locked into an A.H.L. spot after adding prospects, Charlie Ellic, and Owen Griffin this week. No matter Thursday's result, the Blue Jackets in the night in a playoff position, eyes on widening their metropolitan lead.