Keys To The Game: Blue Jackets VS. Predators

Nov 25, 2013; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Columbus Blue Jackets forward Nick Foligno (71) celebrates a goal by teammate defenseman Ryan Murray (not pictured) during the second period as goaltender James Reimer (34), defensemen Carl Gunnarsson (36) and Dion Phaneuf (3) look on at the Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

This season, Columbus Blue Jackets fans have been treated to the best of times, and the worst of times. The road trip that just concluded is a perfect example. In 5 games, the Jackets won 3, however, the two that they lost were horribly ugly games in which they were outscored 13-2.

So, what is the source of the inconsistency? Neither the team or the coaching staff have been able to answer that very important question. When they win, they do it right, but when they lose, it is sloppy and hard to watch.

With that in mind, here is what the Blue Jackets need to focus on to get a win at home against Nashville.

1. Crash the net

It is one of the first offensive lessons of hockey 101.  If you crash the net, and get yourself in place for rebounds, the goals will come.  It is no different for the Jackets.  When they play the game aggressively, and attack the front of the net, they win games.

A prime example is Monday’s 6-0 thrashing of Toronto.  The lines were clicking, and five different forwards scored goals, with Ryan Johansen getting two.  This has been a problem this season, but when they do get it together, the payoff is grand.

2. Take advantage of the power play

Monday night, Columbus went 2-4 on the power play.   If they want to rack up wins, this has to continue.  At the time of this article, the Jackets are 15th in the league in power play percentage.  Keeping this pace will increase their rank very quickly.

Keeping the feet moving, and drawing penalties needs to be a top priority.

3. Take the pressure off Bobrovsky

Nov 22, 2013; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky (72) during the third period against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena. The Vancouver Canucks won 6-2. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports

Last season in four games against Nashville, Sergei Bobrovsky allowed only 7 total goals and the Jackets won all 4, sweeping the series.  This was due to a combination of his stellar play, and the active sticks and great defensive play in front of the net.

Blocking shots and disrupting the Predator offense is a must in this game.  The Nashville offense has been as hit and miss as that of Columbus, but they can’t rely on that.  If the Jackets let their guard down, the Predators are going to strike.

This edition of keys to the game has an added bonus: a fourth key! It is plain and simple…

4. Remember Monday night? Do that!