Blue Jackets host Canucks Tonight at 7

Tonight the Jackets are home at Nationwide Arena to host the Vancouver Canucks. It will be the third time the two teams have faced off this season. Both games have gone to the Canucks, and they were won by only a goal a piece.

BlueJackets.com reports that Ty Conklin is on his way back to Syracuse, as Leclaire has returned from his injury and should be ready to start tonight. If Pazzy can get on the ice tonight, it's going to take quite a load off of Norrena who has started 7 of the last 8 games.

The Canucks are looking for win to stand out in the Northwest Division. The top and bottom of that division are separated by only two points. By comparison, 27 points separate the first and fifth place teams in Columbus' central division. On the ice, Vancouver has managed 17 goals in the last 5 games, so the CBJ defense will have to play tight to shut them down.

In the Columbus Dispatch today was a great article about the new CBJ coach, Ken Hitchcock. The story chronicles his life, including the loss of both parents at an early age and his hockey coaching career. The article insightfully looks at what drives the 56 year old coach, and how his style has created both wins and conflict with his players. For those of you outside the Dispatch coverage area, you can view the article here. Also, this link gives a quick overview of Hitch's NHL and international career.

Jackets v. Canucks 7pm on FSN, or inside Nationwide Arena, if you have the means.