A fan favorite is back, while another gets demoted
Kirill Marchenko, who has missed the last couple of games by way of a healthy scratch, looks like he’ll be re-joining his team tomorrow against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Based on today’s practice lines, Marchenko looks to be on a line with fellow Russian winger Dmitri Voronkov and centered by Cole Sillinger. Having these two play together could do wonders for them both. Voronkov doesn't speak English, so being able to talk with Marchenko will be huge for him.
Marchenko hasn’t had a very good start to the season. In 7 games, he has 3 assists and no goals. He does, however, have 20 shots on goal, so he is shooting the puck at least.
Hopefully sitting upstairs and watching the last two games has provided some insight into how he needs to fix his game.
Alexandre Texier, back after a year in Europe is pointless after 9 games this season. It looks like he’ll be bumped down to the 4th line with Sean Kuraly and either Justin Danforth or Mathieu Olivier. Texier has 14 shots on goal this season and has been invisible on the ice for the most part. Many people question why he hasn’t been scratched yet, maybe that time is coming soon?
Erik Gudbranson missed practice again today. Against the New York Islanders, he blocked a shot with his foot, which put his availability in question for the Dallas Stars game. He did play in that game though, so we can assume he’ll tough it out and play tomorrow.
It looks like the defense will stay together if Gudbranson plays. Adam Boqvist and Andrew Peeke continue to be scratched. Fans have been wondering what is going on with these two and their future with Columbus. Maybe the Jackets are keeping them healthy until Daniil Tarasov comes back? I guess we’ll find out in a few weeks. I'm surprised that Boqvist and Peeke haven’t at least played a few more games each, just to keep them in game shape.
No word on who will start in net tomorrow vs. the Lightning, but we can assume it'll be Elvis Merzlikins.
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