Tootoo's antics derail Jackets

I didn't get to catch all of last night's game on the radio but judging by what I did catch and by the box score Predators super pest Jordan Tootoo once again got under the skin of the Jackets and drew a whopping 6 penalties. The Preds went on to win the game 3-1.

The Jackets were badly outplayed in the first period getting outshot 15-2. They bounced back in the second and outshot the Preds 19-0. Unfortunately the lineup, with only RJ Umberger as a top 6 player, was unable to to convert on numerous chances. Be it mostly a Syracuse roster or not the Jackets have to score when they play that kind of period -- that was the game right there.

There were some brights spot, especially Freddy Norrena's continued strong play in the pre-season. He held the fort as long as he could. Grant Clitsome also played another stong game leading the Jackets in ice time with over 24 minutes played. Mirasty also got to drop the mitts with Grant and by all accounts had another strong bout.

Unfortunately the PP continued to sputter and the PK gave up two more PP goals. Both Jared Boll and Derick Dorsett were goaded into double minor roughing penalties from the pest.

The Jackets have got to figure out a way to contain this guy and prevent him from getting in their heads. I know everybody wants a piece of him but that's his game. They need to start hitting first where it hurts the most when they play this team, the scoreboard. Then let Tootoo's antics come to them and turn the tables.

The loss drops the Jackets to 1-3 in the preseason. All losses coming on the road. There are 4 more preseason games left to play and my guess is that these games will have mostly Jacket regulars in the lineup as they start getting down to business with the core for the start of the season on October 10th.

Cuts are expected either today or tomorrow. The Jackets take on the Blackhawks at home tomorrow night at 7 EST.

-LTL