Boone Jenner's Remarks Following 5-1 Loss in LA Should Spark the Blue Jackets

The first period of last night's game against the Kings could have been described as boring. Which isn't often a bad thing when you're playing on the road. For the Jackets however, they got lulled into a false sense of security. Then, they got knocked out.

Quinton Byfield's highlight reel goal was just the beginning. The Kings shut the Blue Jackets down all night, and then seemed to capitalize on every single CBJ mistake en route to a decisive 5-1 victory.

The result was embarrassing for a team who has seen its share of poor outcomes this season. We've learned to accept losses as part of this team's plight, but what happened last night was something we shouldn't be happy with.

Team captain Boone Jenner described their play bluntly after the game.

"We just didn't play hard enough, or good enough to win tonight."

Boone Jenner

Some took to social media to call out the captain's comments. Personally, I think this was actually a calculated, smart decision by Boone.

He's typically pretty reserved when it comes to media interviews. Which means that when he does speak up, it's for good reason. And if you watched last night's performance, you'll likely agree that he had cause to speak up.

This should serve as a kick in the pants for a team that has to outwork the opposition to have any chance of winning. This roster isn't one that's good enough to win on talent just yet. It's probably years away from being that good.

But, they can work hard. With so many young players, there's no reason for them to not work hard. Showing up with a half-hearted effort against one of the league's deepest rosters, is one way to nearly guarantee embarrassment.

The Jackets are right back in action tonight against the Anaheim Ducks. In spite of the back to back, I expect them to come out hard and fast after these comments. If not, maybe it's time to question the roster on a greater level.