Game #28 - at Columbus Blue Jackets

Game 28

Penguins (17-8-2, 36 points) at Blue Jackets (14-9-1, 29 points)

Why does it matter?
The Blue Jackets are one of the surprise stories in the NHL this year, despite recent struggles. This is a also good chance to continue the development of a regional rivalry.

What has been happening lately?

• Pens - 11-1-1 in their past 13 games. You know they're going to lose eventually, but the way they're playing right now, it sure doesn't feel like it.
• Blue Jackets - The Jackets have lost four straight and are playing for the third time in four nights.

Questions to be answered

• Based on their recent schedule and results, you know the Blue Jackets will come out with a fire lit under them. Will the Pens be ready to go?
• Can the Pens stop Rick Nash? He had 10 goals in 11 games during November.
• Do the Jackets have an answer for Sid?

Keys to the game

• Roll four lines all night long. The Jackets are deep, especially down the middle with Umberger, Vermette and Brassard. Only Jared Boll averages less than 10 minutes per game.
• Some of our wingers need to play better on the road. Kennedy is a -3 with one goal on the road, and Chris Kunitz doesn't shoot the puck as much on the road for some reason.
• If the game is tight, the faceoff battle between Sid and Vermette will be key. Vermette is very good on faceoffs.