Overview

• The season opener is Thursday at Bridgestone Arena against Columbus, marking Brady Martin’s NHL debut at first-line center.
• Coach Andrew Brunette said Martin earned the assignment after posting two goals and one assist in four preseason games.
• Nashville expects to dress four rookies for Opening Night as the club evaluates early-season options.
• The Predators seek a course correction after a 30-44-8 finish and a 2-3 mark over their past five openers.
• Blue Jackets coach Dean Evason has not named a starting goaltender, with Elvis Merzlikins and Jet Greaves competing for the role.