Scott Howson seemingly executed the equivalent of a blind pass when he dealt former Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Kris Russell to the St. Louis Blues in exchange for a far less experienced blue-liner in Nikita Nikitin.
Now, two weeks after that trade, both teams have benefited in a major way. Since the trade, Russell has three points and 11 blocked shots in seven games. Nikitin has tallied five assists and has nine hits during his time in Columbus.
St. Louis has also undergone changes behind the bench. Following a shaky start to the season, the Blues hired coach Ken Hitchcock who has a 6-1-2 record with the team.
Hitchcock held a managerial role in the Blue Jackets organization after being fired from his coaching position in the 2009-2010 season. He was the only coach to take Columbus to the playoffs.
Sunday will be the first time Ken Hitchcock and Kris Russell have appeared in Nationwide Arena since leaving for St. Louis.
With increased emphasis on the divisional rivalry, tonight’s game should have a playoff-like atmosphere.
The Blues’ 2-0 shutout win against Calgary will give goalie Brian Elliott confidence when he faces the Blue Jackets’ potent first line. David Backes, who had a goal and an assist against the Flames, will garner attention from Columbus’ defensive corps.
The Blue Jackets 5-1 victory against the Buffalo Sabres is the latest mark of the team’s newfound success. Rick Nash had a pair of goals in the contest and Jeff Carter added a couple assists. Despite quality play, Vinny Prospal was held without a point in his 1,000th NHL game.
Curtis Sanford is expected to get the nod tonight from Arniel despite Steve Mason’s return to the lineup.
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