"It wasn't the ending we envisioned, we had high expectations to make a deep run after finishing 1st in the East. But we saw major developments and had 3 rookies playing major minutes, so we felt another offseason of development would leave us in a good spot. We have a lot of faith in our core and see tremendous upside in Gauthier, Lysell and Schneider after their first full season in the pros."

The Jackets said goodbye to Nichuskin, Gardiner and deadline acquisitions Gormley and Baertschi while bringing in Ryan Strome, Jarred Tinordi and Zach Bogosian to increase the depth throughout the lineup. The lines will likely juggle to find the right combinations, but Hischier will be the focal point of the offense once again. 

Rasmus Dahlin is expected to carry the load on defence and lead a strong top 4 that will play lots of minutes and aim to fulfill the team endorsement of less than 230 goals against. Supporting the D, The Jackets will have a two headed monster in goal, with Poulin and Commesso likely to split the season as Commesso looks to take on a bigger role and eyes the starters job next season. "Its open competition, both guys will get a shot at the number one job and we will ride the hot hand" 

The Jackets lost the opener to the Stars, and aim to get in the win column after a day off against the St Louis Blues on Friday.