Oct 3, 2017

With the final cuts made, JacketsGM (Jer) has made his choices regarding a starting roster. Texting from his Blackberry, the GM told us that he expects the team to take another step forward. Saying: "We chose to keep the core group together for another run, it's a real nice mix of young guys and vets. We're expecting a real competitive year, and to do that we need our young guys to keep pace for the full year. This year's schedule should provide some relief, as last seasons compressed schedule really tested the stamina of a lot of players on the team."

The full roster looks very similar, with a few small changes on the 4th line at center, and a new defense partner for McIlrath on the 2nd pairing with the departure of Daniel Krejci.

The Jackets 2017-18 season kicks off Friday at home vs. the Arizona Coyotes.