That was an interesting game. First in a storied barn such as the Bell Center, the Jackets seemed a bit overwhelmed at first but put up a strong showing – they just came up short on the scoreboard – which is of course, where it matters most. We got to see Carey Price be Carey Price. I had thought the Habs would have gone farther last season if Kreider hadn’t taken him out slid into the net during the post season causing an unforeseen injury.
Anyway, the Jackets are still doing well on this 5 game roadtrip – 2-2 so far, with the Rangers looming. Let’s take a look at the three stars from tonight’s match as stated by NHL.com:
3rd Star: Nick Foligno. I think it’s interesting to see Foligno get the star as it’s a comment on what a difference he makes while on the 3rd line. Foligno had four shots on goal, and got the lone Jackets goal in a flukey flukey way – but honestly, if you were looking to name a Jacket, I may have gone with one whose performance wasn’t on the scoresheet but was important in driving offense: Matt Calvert.
2nd Star: Carey Price. Carey Price faced 32 shots, nine more than his opponent, and still let only one in. It was a special performance by Price, in fact I would have given him first star honors. But, media can often vote on goals versus goaltending soooo…
1st Star: Max Pacioretty. The first two goals (which of course include the game winner) came from Max. He had the Jackets number early and made them pay. 6 shots and almost 21 minutes on ice. There you go.
Stud. Matt Calvert. Led in shots until late, was in the top three in Corsi differential for the first 40 minutes and continues to disrupt opponents’ play with his game. Loved what we saw from him tonight.
Dud. This isn’t on Cam Atkinson, but oh if that goal had gone in – what kind of luck do you have to have to knock a shot off BOTH goalposts without it going in?
The Jackets hopped on a plane post game and headed to New York. The Rangers await…
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
