It is going to be a step-by-step process for the Columbus Blue Jackets and this was a step in the wrong direction.
The Blackhawks were supposed to be a team that the Blue Jackets could take. They have been a thorn in Columbus' side all season long. Tonight was no different.
| 1 | 2 | 3 | F | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BLUE JACKETS | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| BLACKHAWKS | 0 | 0 | 2 | 2 |
The first period was all Blue Jackets as they outshot the Blackhawks and also out-attempted them. They were unable to get a goal on the board but the Blue Jackets were able to hit a couple of posts in the process.
The second period was more in the Blackhawks' favor as the shots began to tilt in their direction. Similar to the first though, even though there were some exciting moments the majority of the period was the teams positioning themselves. The shots and shot attempts would go back into the Blackhawks' favor during the frame.
Entering into the final frame, all it was going to take was a goal to unlock the game. It looked momentarily that it was going to be more of the same as the teams were mostly kept to the outside. The Blue Jackets got a power play and came up empty but shortly after Patrick Kane, the Blue Jacket killer would score the opening goal of the game. An empty-net goal was scored in the final minute of the game putting the cherry on top of the game for Chicago.
The Blue Jackets can't buy a win right now and given where they are in the standings. Some long looks at the lineup and team are needed.
Injury Update
Goaltender Elvis Merzlikins is week to week with an upper-body injury. Forward Gustav Nyquist is still out indefinitely after shoulder surgery.
Next Up
The Blue Jackets next play the Nashville Predators on Saturday, February 27 at Bridgestone Arena at 3 PM EST.
