Columbus Blue Jackets Continue Great Post Bye Week Play
The Columbus Blue Jackets continue their rise to the top of the standings as they beat the New Jersey Devils 2-0. The Jackets break the 90 point mark for the third time in franchise history.
Last’s game was an important step in the Columbus Blue Jackets regular season stretch run. The New Jersey Devils did what the New Jersey Devils do. They turned the game into a 60 minute snoozer and tried to lull the Jackets into a loss. Unfazed by this the Jackets stood tall and protected home ice, adding two more points to this year’s impressive total.
Characterized by a lack of energy and boring neutral zone play, the CBJ relied on Sergei Bobrovsky to carry the team once again. When you have the best goaltender in the league this year, you can afford to sometimes not play with your pants on fire. 33 saves from the number on cop on the force kept the Jackets in the game.
Related Story: Bobrovsky: From Backup to Legend
Bobrovsky posted his THIRD STRAIGHT SHUTOUT!!! Bob hasn’t allowed a regulation goal since the waning seconds of the New York Ranger game on February 26th. Literal seconds, only two on the clock when the garbage last second goal squeaked by. Bob is on an unstoppable tear right now and placing himself firmly in the Venzia Trophy race.
Bjork Puts the Game Away
It wasn’t until nine minute mark that Oliver Bjorkstrand found the back of the net following a great pass from behind the net from Sam Gagner. Bjork netted his fourth goal in the only way seemingly possible; top shelf, right side over the glove.
Columbus Blue Jackets
The 1-0 lead was added to following an empty net goal from Cam Atkinson. The 30th on the season for Atkinson puts him within striking distance of Rick Nash’s franchise record of 41 goals.
The Chase of Washington
A few weeks ago the discussion was around whether the Jackets would be better suited dropping to the first Wild Card slot so they can be placed in the Atlantic side of the playoff bracket. Those discussions have ceased following a 5-1-1 record following the bye week.
The CBJ are the hottest team in the Eastern Conference and are only five points behind Washington. With 15 games remaining, and two against the Caps, its certainly conceivable that the Jackets could catch Washington.
The Jackets have three two days off before their next game against the Sabres of Buffalo. This will be one of only three two day breaks. The remainder of the Jackets games will be either back to backs or on one day rest. Enjoy the long two day break Fifth Liners. We’ll see you on Friday at Nationwide.