Hofer will start for the first time since allowing four goals on 15 shots (.733 SV%) in an 8-3 loss to the Nashville Predators on November 24th but will have a favourable matchup against a Columbus Blue Jackets team that has lost three straight, including a 7-3 loss to the New York Islanders last night. Hofer has been inconsistent this season but mostly reliable when called upon, posting a 3.04 GAA and .901 SV% in nine games (5-4-0). The Blues are -141 road favourites on Friday night.


