On the season, Korpisalo is 9-6-3 with a 2.91 goals-against average and .901 save percentage. His last three starts have come against difficult foes in Tampa Bay, Pittsburgh and Boston, and tonight he'll have to face the high-scoring duo of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, who have combined for 79 goals.
"Preparation is the same," Korpisalo said. "During the game, you have to know who is in there. They line with McDavid and Draisaitl has been really hot lately, so you have to be aware."
He'll be backed up by Kinkaid, but there was a scare with the trade deadline acquisition's health after he absorbed a big hit from Anderson during the team's morning skate.
Anderson was battling with defenseman Scott Harrington during a drill and couldn't stop himself from going hard into Kinkaid. Anderson went head over heels while Kinkaid fell backward, with the back of his helmet going into the post.
Kinkaid was looked at on the ice by trainers and needed a few minutes to gather himself but did return to practice and is good to go for tonight.
"That's why I didn't play football growing up," said Kinkaid, who made the save on the play. "I didn't want to get crushed. I just got laid out. I needed a second to regroup and see if my head was still on."
The former New Jersey goalie is yet to play in a game since coming to Columbus. On the year, he is 15-18-6 with a 3.36 GAA and .891 save percentage.
"You always want that shot to prove yourself, especially with a new team," he said. "You just have to be patient and whatever is meant to be will be. All I can do is work hard right now."
Of course, Kinkaid's stall in the Blue Jackets' road dressing room in Edmonton is located right next to Anderson's. Kinkaid couldn't help but have a little fun at the big forward's expense after practice.
"I told him I'm going to throw his stuff in the shower later," Kinkaid joked. "It might be a little wet before game time."
