In one of their worst games in recent memory, the Columbus Blue Jackets were able to battle adversity and overcome against the Detroit Red Wings by a score of 4-1. It was all capped off by Lukas Sedlak’s first NHL goal. Is this a sign of things to come or will the Jackets start winning again in more impressive fashion?
Good, Better, Best
Good: Oliver Bjorkstrand
Whether it be fans or the organization itself, many people want Oliver Bjorkstrand to succeed at the NHL level. He has tantalizing potential that makes anyone that watches him drool at the prospects of him in the league. Last night wasn’t a dominating game from Bjorkstrand, he didn’t put any points on the board but it was a step in the right direction. During the first few games of the season, Bjorkstrand looked tentative and small. Last night he took advantage of what was given to him and put some shots on goal. Playing on a line with Alexander Wennberg and Brandon Saad will help out some, it isn’t the end all be all though as far as why he can add value on the ice. He ended the game with a 60% even strength CF and shortly the points will end up on the score sheet for the young Dane.
Better: Line domination
This was one of the few games in recent memory that didn’t involve the Jackets winning the shot differential battle. If you look at score adjusted that may be a different story, we won’t dive into that now though. The first line and the fourth line of the Jackets were dominant during the game. In upwards of 60% CF good, while on the other end of the spectrum the second and third lines were caved in at even strength. Brandon Dubinsky got a fortuitous goal, it pays to be more lucky than good sometimes.
Best: Lukas Sedlak
After multiple close calls, Lukas Sedlak finally has first NHL goal.
Lukas Sedlak first NHL goal! #CBJ 3-1 pic.twitter.com/VqMBYHLHFU
— Buckeye State Hockey (@BuckeyeStHockey) December 10, 2016
It has been written multiple times how great of an addition Sedlak has been to the fourth line. Overall, the new look fourth line has made for a great mix of players. Sedlak didn’t seem like he would be one of the first players to truly stick on the Jackets, his play has changed the minds of many, including myself.
Bestest: Sergei Bobrovsky
Plainly, the Jackets don’t win the game if Sergei Bobrovsky doesn’t stand on his head the way he did last night. Having faced 33 shots and saving 32, it was a heavy workload for the Russian. A .970 sv% will win your team almost every game. Bobrovsky is showing that he is capable of a Vezina level campaign once again. Keeping him healthy should be the team’s number one priority and that could start with McElhinney starting today against the New York Islanders.
Tweet of the Game:
If Cam scores short handed, it's a regular strength goal to him.
— This tweet is 6 ft away. (@RadiantRG) December 10, 2016
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