Fri Jan 09 04:30:00 UTC 2026: ### Blue Jackets Face Golden Knights with Roster Changes Amid Injury Woes
The Story:
The Columbus Blue Jackets are set to face the Vegas Golden Knights with a lineup significantly impacted by injuries and recent roster moves. The projected lineup indicates several changes for the Blue Jackets, including debuts and recalls from the American Hockey League. Meanwhile, the Golden Knights will maintain the same lineup from their previous victory. Both teams are dealing with key injuries affecting several players, impacting their respective team compositions.
Key Points:
- The Blue Jackets’ projected lineup features Dimitri Voronkov, Adam Fantilli, and Kirill Marchenko on the top line.
- Egor Zamula will make his Blue Jackets debut, replacing Jake Christiansen on defense.
- Mikael Pyyhtia has been recalled from Cleveland and will make his season debut, replacing Danton Heinen.
- Key Blue Jackets players such as Erik Gudbranson, Isac Lundestrom, Brendan Smith, Miles Wood, and Mason Marchment are injured.
- The Golden Knights will use the same lineup as their previous game.
- The Golden Knights are missing key players due to injury, including Adin Hill, William Karlsson, Shea Theodore, and Brayden McNabb.
- Reilly Smith is out 3-4 months following surgery after an injury suffered on December 29.
- Mason Marchment is week-to-week and was injured during a game on January 4.
- January 8th game between the Blue Jackets and Golden Knights.
Key Takeaways:
- The Blue Jackets are facing significant challenges due to a high number of injuries.
- The Golden Knights are dealing with their own injury issues, but are able to maintain lineup consistency in the short term.
- Roster moves, including debuts and recalls, indicate the Blue Jackets are actively trying to address gaps created by injuries.
- The injuries to key players like Smith and Marchment are affecting the team compositions.
- The game on January 8th will be a test of depth for both teams as they navigate their respective injury situations.