The veterans haven't produced as much as they have in the past and it is a tough pill to swallow. It has led to a change in strategy because of the lack of production and because of the injuries that have struck the team.
It means that the Columbus Blue Jackets have to start scoring in different ways and with different players.
"Not coming, I tried to shoot some," said Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski when speaking to the media post-game in Colorado about the power play. "Bread (Panarin) had a few Grade-A scoring chances. It's just not going in for us right now."
After being shutout by Colorado Avalanche goaltender Jonathan Bernier, Werenski acknowledged that they need to start faster than they have.
"Yeah, definitely," said Werenski when asked if the number of shots to start the third period was about looking at the clock. "I think we have to do that from the start. We have to have a better start. I think they (Avalanche) came out with a lot of fire. They're a quick team; we're playing at their home, it's their building. We knew it was going to happen, but we have to be better."
It is a delicate balance to strike when looking at the lineup. The offense is needed just as much as the defense but to play safe, being risk averse is the key. Tying it into the start and also the lack of special teams, it can be a recipe for disaster.
"I think these last two games we haven't created much offensively. We still have to remember to be on the attack. It's just being smarter. Obviously, we don't want to play too safe. That means they're on the attack and they're getting opportunities. So we still have to stay on the attack but its just playing smarter away from the puck and I think we'll be fine."
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