Hit parade? Umberger's return figures to up physicality between Penguins and Blue Jackets
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Pittsburgh Penguins coach Dan Bylsma talks with an official while standing behind Craig Adams (27) and Sidney Crosby (87) the third period of a first-round NHL playoff hockey game in Pittsburgh Wednesday, April 16, 2014. The Penguins defeated the Columbus Blue Jackets 4-3. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) (The Associated Press)
The Columbus Blue Jackets hope the return of forward R.J. Umberger will help them draw even with the Pittsburgh Penguins in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals on Saturday night.
Umberger missed Pittsburgh's 4-3 win in the series opener with an upper body injury. He has been cleared by team doctors and he expects the upstart Blue Jackets to continue the physical play that briefly rattled the Penguins in Game 1.
Columbus took a two-goal lead early in the second period. The Penguins scored the final three goals to escape.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Umberger says the Blue Jackets know they have to get under Pittsburgh's skin to win. Penguins star Sidney Crosby believes his team will be better prepared this time.