The Blue Jackets recently made history winning a franchise-best nine consecutive games, and they were looking to build on that Monday night against the Rangers.
Despite leading for most of the latter half of this contest, the Jackets were unable to defend the lead, as Derek Stepan tied the game in the final 30 seconds before eventually winning it in overtime.
Some thoughts:
1) The Blue Jackets may have lost their first game in 10, but I think that was one of their better showings in that span. Playing against arguably the best team in hockey, the Jackets went toe-to-toe with the Rangers, and were the better team for much of the game. They were outshot 21-8 in the final 25 minutes, however, the Jackets outshot New York in the first two periods, and finished with more shot attempts at even-strength. It's always nice to be part of history, but nine consecutive wins and 19 of 20 possible points isn't half bad.
2) His .905SV% wouldn't suggest it, but I thought Bobrovsky was excellent. He routinely made highlight real saves, and was a big reason it took New York 19:30 in the 3rd to tie it.
Bobrovsky. https://t.co/FA4rJk9t6U
— Todd Cordell (@ToddCordell) April 7, 20153) I thought the 4th line of Matt Calvert - Mark Letestu - Jeremy Morin was very good. They did a nice job of cycling down low, and sustaining offensive zone time late while defending the lead. They also accounted for one of Columbus' goals, while playing against Tanner Glass' line. A lot of teams still have players like Glass, so if you have a 4th line that possesses this kind of skill you'll win that battle more often than not, which will lead to more wins.
4) Artem Anisimov posted a 63CF% at even-strength, had an assist, and four shots in what turned out to be a losing effort.
He also made an impressive deflection pass look effortless, which kind of puts in perspective just how good NHL players are.
Real nice deflection pass from Anisimov here. https://t.co/2Orr3f3ure
— Todd Cordell (@ToddCordell) April 7, 2015Recent posts