The Columbus Blue Jackets travel from Queens to Newark today to finish up their back-to-back matinees. The Jackets can clinch a playoff spot with a win over the New Jersey Devils.
If you thought this day was going to be a possibility in September, you’re a liar. Or we need to talk because I’d like to know the winning lottery numbers please. No one in their right mind would have predicted that the Columbus Blue Jackets could clinch a playoff spot with 11 games remaining in the season.
But here we are, just a CBJ win over last place New Jersey away from punching a ticket to the post season. On top of that, a win would put them in a tie for first place in the league with Washington, again.
Sergei Bobrovsky will be in net after taking the day off against the Islanders Saturday. Bob looks to add to his league leading 38 wins and could overtake Braden Holtby for the top spot in goals against average.
Mixing Lines at the Matinees
During yesterday’s afternoon game, John Tortorella played some lines that we haven’t seen before. With the return of Lukas Sedlak and Matt Calvert, along with the addition of Lauri Korpikoski, Torts has plenty of options to play with.
Now is the time to mess around with the lines and see what shakes out. Knowing how certain players will work with other guys is key as the Jackets enter the playoffs. The jackets have been relatively lucky with injuries but who knows what will happen in April and May.
Quick Hits
- A win would give the CBJ 100 points for the first time in franchise history.
- Cory Schneider to start in goal after sitting out last two games according to Mike Moreala
- Zach Werenski looks to continue his five game point streak.
The back-to-back matinees wrap up this afternoon in Newark as the Columbus Blue Jackets face off against the New Jersey Devils. The last meeting between the two Metro foes should end with a playoff spot being locked up for the CBJ.