The Good:
The Blue Jackets were once again doing a lot of the right things. Play in the defensive zone was being kept mostly out to the sides, by the boards. The defense played a strong game for the most part. Even Jack Johnson was making strong plays on defense, including saving a puck that was sliding towards the goal. The awareness of what was happening in the defensive zone was some of the best all season. And the Blue Jackets impressed a national TV audience, a rare opportunity for the club.
The Bad:
There was nothing really bad in this game, but one place that they could have improved was in taking more shots. Taking shots against Minnesota helped to win that game for the Jackets, but they seemed a little bit tentative about taking shots last night. Be a little more aggressive, and maybe the game goes the other way.
The Ugly:
There was nothing really, truly ugly about the game. It was a good, hard-fought battle between two divisional foes who are not as mismatched at the records may have indicated.
Blue Jackets Player of the Game:
A lot of players could have earned this, but the one who really deserves it is Jack Johnson. His save helped keep the Jackets in the game, and since he rarely has a good game, giving praise when it's earned is due. Maybe earning some praise for the efforts will encourage more good efforts.
Looking Ahead:
There's no rest for the Blue Jackets as they play tonight at home against the New Jersey Devils. It will be the second time they have met in Columbus this season, with the Jackets winning the first meeting.
Record: 12-15-3, 27 pts., 7th place in the Metropolitan Division
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