Final Score: Blue Jackets - 4 Penguins - 2
Game Summary
This game was broadcast on NHL Network but for some reason not on Game Centre Live, very frustrating for someone like me who doesn't have NHL Network.
Onto the game. The Blue Jackets front office/coaching staff really wanted to make a statement this game. It came out after last game that the staff was concerned with the way the team was playing and wanted to see a better performance this afternoon.
... #CBJ brass have been a touch underwhelmed by preseason play so far, want to get focused and go. Lineups rest of way will be #NHL heavy.
— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) September 26, 2015The first move was to make a wave of cuts. The Blue Jackets cut 14 players and released the three players on tryout contacts (Shepard, Pihlstrom and Salituro). The most notable cuts were Oliver Bjorkstrand and Sonny Milano who were both sent to the AHL.
I talked about last time how sending Sonny down was a good move so I understand that one. Bjorkstrand is a little different, I felt he should have got a longer look. On a positive note Kerby Rychel is still here and for my money a good bet to make the team.
I was disappointed they released Salituro, I was really hoping to see him in a pre-season game. He will head back to the Ottawa 67's of the OHL and will be one of the team’s best players.
The front office wanted a statement and boy did they ever get a statement. Sure this wasn't the full Penguins roster, but they still had Crosby and Kessel, among other NHL players. The Blue Jackets scored two goals in the first period and outshot the Penguins 14-1. They went up by four in the second before, in typical Jackets fashion, going into a defensive shell. They we're outshot 34-15 from the second period on. This has been a big problem for the Blue Jackets in the last few seasons. They get a lead then sit back and try to defend it. That strategy does not work in the NHL today. The best way to defend a lead is to have the puck in the offensive zone. It’s clear in this game the Jackets didn’t do that. They had five shots in the second period; you’re not going to win many games like that.
Ryan Johansen led the way offensively with two goals and an assist. Brandon Saad who was playing in his first pre-season game chipped in with an assist. The most telling number for Saad was his ice time which was 16:11. The team showed no signs of holding back which is great.
After the game more cuts were made. The team sent goalies Anton Forsberg and Joonas Korpisalo to the AHL, as well as defencemen Oleg Yevenko. Brett Gallant was put on waivers with the intent of sending him down.
Stat of the Night
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