The Blue Jackets started their west coast road trip poorly by losing to the Los Angeles Kings, 5-2. After dominating the first period, the Blue Jackets took their foot off of the pedal and let the Kings get back into it. They'll need to cleanse the palate against the Ducks to have a successful road trip.
Here's what's ahead tonight:
MATCHUP:
Columbus Blue Jackets at. Anaheim Ducks
Honda Center, 10:00 p.m.
TV: Fox Sports Ohio
WHAT TO WATCH FOR:
- Not sure if it was jet lag or if the team was just wooed by too many stars, but the Blue Jackets lost their way after their first period against the Los Angeles Kings. A sustained performance with the new players will be important, and if they hope to contend, this road trip is crucial.
- Sergei Bobrovsky comes back into the lineup to face the Ducks. While the loss against the Kings can't be solely placed on Korpisalo, the Blue Jackets will be happy seeing Bobrovsky back between the pipes. Will the extended time off effect him at all?
- If you play in the Pacific Division, you'll need a big-time center. The Ducks have Ryan Getzlaf, named the NHL's third star of the week last week, and he is in prime form. The Ducks haven't played since Feb. 25 and will be well rested. In his last four games, Getzlaf has seven points (two goals, five assists). He'll be a handful all night long.
TALE OF THE TAPE:
Ducks
35-24-5 / 4th in Pacific Division
PP: 17.8% (24th) / PK: 82.5% (9th)
5v5 Corsi: 48.27% (22nd)
Blue Jackets
32-26-5 / 5th in Metropolitan Division
PP: 15.2% (30th) / PK: 76.2% (27th)
5v5 Corsi: 51.82% (5th)
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