The Columbus Blue Jackets have outscored the Leafs 11-2 over two games this season. Bad starts have been a killer, with the Leafs outshot 23-9 between the two first periods of those losses. Avoiding their season-long trend as one of the worst first period teams in the League (-15 goal differential) seems pivotal against a team that has had no problem scoring against the Leafs or in general this season (7th in goals per game).
There is some momentum going for the Leafs at home, winners of seven straight at the ACC, where they’re up to an impressive 21-10-1 this season. Only Boston and Pittsburgh have more wins at home among Eastern Conference teams.
With no game day skate today, the lineup alterations are a mystery until game time. The one thing we do know is that Frazer McLaren was waived with the intention of sending him to the Marlies.
There was some talk of James Reimer getting this start being under consideration – James Reimer will get the start, his first since conceding four goals on 19 shots on January 25 versus Winnipeg.
Leafs will go back to 11 forward/7 defender lineup tonight against Columbus.
— Jonas Siegel (@jonasTSN1050) March 3, 2014
Lines vs. CBJ: van Riemsdyk-Bozak-Kessel. Lupul-Kadri-Clarkson. Raymond-Kulemin-Bodie. Smith-McClement.
— Jonas Siegel (@jonasTSN1050) March 3, 2014
Defence: Gunnarsson-Phaneuf. Gardiner-Franson. Gleason-Rielly. Ranger. Goaltender: Reimer.
— Jonas Siegel (@jonasTSN1050) March 3, 2014
The Blue Jackets trail the Leafs by seven points but hold two games in hand.
