Well we couldn’t let a group of guys going after revenge get it without causing some nervous moments, but luckily the boys in Union Blue were up to the task tonight and beat the Edmonton Oilers 4-2 in Columbus. It’s a crucial two points, and yet another “up” in the constant yo-yo’ing this team is doing so we’ll see what happens tomorrow in Boston but for now, let’s look at tonight’s three stars (These are a lot more fun when we get to talk about Jackets)
Third Star: Sergei Bobrovsky
Can’t argue here. Bob faced 28 shots, and gave up two goals. He showed fairly solid play and was supported by a defense that seemed much more interested in helping him out tonight – well except for the third period when 8 minutes of penalty killing took it’s toll and resulted in one power play goal and one goal immediately after the power play expired. The first Bryz vs. Bob matchup showed Bob as the winner.
Second Star: Matt Calvert
Since Matt Calvert returned to the ice post-surgery he’s been doing a lot to make sure you notice him. Tonight was no different. Matt was good for two assists (one looked like a goal that eventually got credited to Anisimov) in just under 18 minutes on the ice. The guy brings energy and when he was out with Johansen and Atkinson – boy did that line sing. It’d be nice to see more of that.
First Star: Ryan Johansen
With tonight’s effort, number nineteen tied for points leader on the roster with a goal and an assist. While the past two seasons sometimes had people scratching their heads over the young center, he is showing signs that he’s grown into his talent and is quickly becoming one of the biggest threats on the team.
Stud
Jack Skille used 6:48 of ice time to tell the organization that he really REALLY wants to stay in Columbus. A lovely breakaway goal and a solid game (except for the late penalty) has people taking notice. I wouldn’t be surprised if, due to talent (and waiver situations) that when the dust clears and injuries heal, good ol’ #5 is still hanging around Nationwide.
Dud
Sloppy play. Mentioned it above, but the Jackets collected four penalties in the first 16 minutes of the third period after only allowing a total of three through the first two periods combined. That’s half of the total playing time – and the period during which both of Edmonton’s goals were scored. After two relatively sharp periods you can NOT let that happen again. Boston awaits and they will be far less forgiving than Edmonton was tonight.
Can’t argue with those stars – can’t argue with the win. Now we just need to see what tomorrow brings and hope for more consistency from the Jackets.
Carry the Flag!
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