Gudbranson (lower body) will draw into the lineup Thursday against Minnesota, per the NHL media site.
Gudbranson missed some preseason action due to the injury, but it seems he's fine for Columbus' Opening Night. He had six goals, 26 points, 74 PIM, 92 hits and 170 blocks in 78 contests with the Blue Jackets in 2023-24. The 32-year-old is projected to serve on the third pairing alongside Jack Johnson on Thursday.