from Michael Arace of the Columbus Dispatch,
The Jackets’ terrible first two months, precipitated in part by a litany of ghastly injuries, might just bleed them out on the floor of this jungle. As well as they have played of late — before last night, they had not lost two in a row since November — they are 10 points out of a wild-card spot. They are as close to last place in the Eastern Conference as they are to a playoff spot.
The Blue Jackets might need three more 10-victory months, and they need a couple of teams ahead of them to feel the same ax of injury that they have felt.
It is possible, given the heart and esprit de corps they have shown the past six weeks. It is possible with improved health, and with 42 games remaining, and with Bob, knock on wood. But it is not likely.
All is not dark.
Sleepwalks such as the one the Jackets took last night are not unusual for a team returning from a long trip that included one last stop in customs. It hurts because points are so precious, but this team has proven resilient. There is a good vibe among the players, who wanted no part of the Connor McDavid derby once they realized they were the lead horse for the No. 1 pick in the draft. They yanked those reins. Good for them.
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