The CBJ have 5 games left, sit in a playoff spot and if they take care of business will play in the second season. Losses in CGY and EDM had some leaving Columbus for dead and calling for Torts’ head. Fifteen goals for and only 2 against in the last 3 have the Jackets streaking back into playoff contention. Bob had two shutouts, three wins and only two goals against, while Bread had a point in each game (2 goals, 1 assist). Fox Sports Ohio highlighted Dubois’ faceoff struggles (which have improved) and Duchene has seen time on a line with Cam and Panarin. Are they figuring it out or will CBJ fans continue to ride the roller coaster of inconsistency in the last 5? Here is a look at what is left: @NSH, @BUF, v. BOS, @NYR and @OTT.
The standings have the CBJ trailing NYI by 7, PIT by 5 and CAR by 1 point(s), while leading MON by only tie-breakers and PHI by 8 points. There is a very narrow path that puts PHI in the post season, but it is mathematically possible.
Here are scenarios:
NYI acquire 4 points in their last 4 games and they are in.
PIT acquire 6 pints in their last 4 games and they are in.
That leaves a variety of different scenarios for CAR, CBJ and MON. The three are separated by 1 point. CAR and CBJ each have 5 games, MON just 4. The Columbus victory over MON was HUGE. C-Bus finds themselves on the road in 4 of the last 5 but playing 2 teams comfortably in the playoffs and 3 eliminated teams.
Highly unlikely that Columbus wins all 5 or loses all 5, so we can skip those. I’m going to guess that 94 points will NOT get them into the playoffs. The Union Blue would need help to get in with 95 points. Ninety-six or more gets them a spot. Most hockey playoff predictor sites have the CBJ with an 80%+ chance of making the playoffs. I’m going to be a little more conservative and say 65/35. Purely looking at remaining schedule I would say MON is on their way to the golf course early.
(Not so) Bold prediction: CBJ make the playoffs. We’ll see after that.
Can the Jackets find their way to 3rd in the Metro?
Does C-Bus stand a chance of winning a playoff series?
Is Jay Beagle the key to winning championships?
By Tom T