Good to have an All-Star back, isn't it?
The Columbus Blue Jackets hung in there against a really good Winnipeg Jets team on Thursday night at Bell MTS Place despite the absence of their leading goal-scorer, Cam Atkinson. As you'll recall, Atkinson was struck in the mouth during warm-ups after a puck rang off the post and hit him unexpectedly.
Atkinson needed four stitches and some dental work and was unable to play in the game, which forced Mark Letestu to get ready on a moment's notice and step into the lineup.
John Tortorella said Saturday morning that Atkinson, who paces the Blue Jackets with 28 goals, will be back in the lineup tonight when they take on the St. Louis Blues at Nationwide Arena. The Blue Jackets could sure use a boost, too, as they're riding a season-long four-game losing skid and desperately need to rack up some points on home ice.
Other items:
- Ryan Murray sounds like a game-time decision, per Tortorella. The coach said he was "not sure" if Murray would be available to play tonight.
- Brandon Dubinsky left the skate early and Tortorella doesn't know what his availability is for the game.
- Joonas Korpisalo will get the start in goal for the Blue Jackets.
