COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Blue Jackets play their first home game of the lockout-shortened NHL season tonight when they host the Detroit Red Wings.
Like all NHL teams trying to soothe the feelings of fans angered by the five-month lockout, the Blue Jackets are offering plenty of giveaways and discounts:
All fans in attendance will get a free T-shirt courtesy of FOX Sports Ohio, a 2012-13 schedule magnet presented by Papa John’s, a cheer card presented by Nationwide Insurance and FOX Sports Ohio and a voucher redeemable for a free Pepsi product, hot dog and popcorn that night.
Fans can also expect numerous in-game prize giveaways as well as the chance to win a player-worn jersey, team officials said.
Derick Brassard’s shootout goal followed by Craig Smith’s miss sent the Blue Jackets to a 3-2 shootout victory over the Nashville Predators on Saturday, the first day of the league’s 48-game season.
Nick Foligno and Artem Anisimov scored in regulation for Columbus, which was outshot by Nashville 34-28.
Sergei Bobrovsky made 32 saves for the Jackets in the win.
The Red Wings are looking for a big bounce-back after getting roughed up 6-0 in their season opener by St. Louis Saturday night.