The common Canada Goose can be identified by a black head and neck, white cheeks, and aggressive, pest-like behavior.
The Columbus Blue Jackets' "Goose" (Gustav Nyquist) can be identified by an electric game-winning, penalty shot goal against the Toronto Maple Leafs that lead to a 4-3 overtime win.
Gustav Nyquist discussed his penalty shot after the game in his presser. While Nyquist has had a penalty shot before, he explained it was the first one in an overtime scenario.
"I think that's my first one (in overtime)...so it feels nice to put that one in," said Nyquist of the opportunity.
The increased stakes of overtime weren't too much for Nyquist. who corralled the puck at mid-ice, skated into the slot, and wired a wrister past the glove of Leafs goaltender, Frederik Andersen.
GOOD NIGHT TORONTO #CBJ pic.twitter.com/8sVg4mJxaS
— 1st Ohio Battery (@1stOhioBattery) October 22, 2019
Though in Nyquist's words, the goal wasn't too special. "I just tried to see what was open and try and hit the spot," he said post game.
There was no earth-shattering move or trick shot on Nyquist's game-winning goal, but it may be one of the most important goals of the young season. While the Blue Jackets were riding a 5-game point streak, the last two games had been heart-breaking losses in early overtime.
Another overtime loss would have been hard to take.
But the Blue Jackets don't have to think about that now after a solid win against what many consider to be a cup-contending opponent.
Another important milestone for the game was the end of an 18-chance long power play drought. Nyquist, a member of the team's first unit, spoke on Alexander Wennberg's power play goal as well.
"It was big for the game, but also our power play. We need to get that going. We hadn't been good enough," said Nyquist. "Hopefully that can springboard us into getting it going here."
Nyquist then elaborated on the need for the power play to increase its output.
"We're getting chances...but it doesn't show on the score sheet. So at some point you've got to look yourself in the mirror and say 'Hey, we've got to be better,'" added Nyquist.
Gus Nyquist now co-leads the team in scoring with 5 points (2 goals, 3 assists) through 9 games. This fact is welcome to an organization who signed him in the off-season hoping to counteract any loss of scoring in free agency.
So far, while not at the level of any of the free agent losses, he has accomplished just that. Nyquist has appeared to form chemistry with the group, has been a common contributor to the score sheet, and is a trusted member of the power play and penalty kill.
All are early indications that the "Goose" is indeed loose.
