The Columbus Blue Jackets flew into Winnipeg on a three game losing streak, seeking to avoid going 0-for-Western Canada against the Jets, who lead the team in wins. The Jackets were also seeking revenge for a 6-2 loss to those Jets in early November.
First Period
The Jackets had a huge push in the second half of the period to lead the shots 12-6, but the game remained scoreless. The biggest silver lining was the penalty kill being able to successfully kill off two penalties.
Second Period
Unfortunately you can only take so many penalties before getting burned. The Jets finally struck first on their fourth power play of the game, midway through the second period. The defense could have kept better track of Kyle Connor on the far side of the play, but credit to him for a great shot.
Fortunately the Jackets got another power play of their own and capitalized with a rebound from the big man, Dmitri Voronkov.
Third Period
The Jackets kept up the pressure in the third period and took the lead for good thanks to two goals in 2:27 from Kent Johnson. The first was a good dirty goal off a rebound:
The second was pure skill as James Van Riemsdyk and Johnson had a 2-on-1 breakaway and JVR fed KJ for the one-timer snipe.
In the final two minutes, the Jackets got several long range attempts at the empty net that resulted in icing calls before a Sean Kuraly attempt made it 4-1.
Final Thoughts
Cole Sillinger left the game with a lower body injury after blocking a shot. Hopefully it’s nothing too serious.
Ivan Provorov was a game time decision after the thumb injury suffered on Friday, but he was able to play and had his usual workload (23:07, second to Zach Werenski among Columbus skaters).
It was a rough trip for Elvis so far but a 24 save on 25 shots faced effort should restore his confidence.
The Jackets have now allowed a power play goal in 13 straight games. This is the longest such streak in the NHL since the 2008-09 Washington Capitals. Assistant coach on that team? Dean Evason.
Up Next
The Blue Jackets finally get to come home and host John Tortorella and the Philadelphia Flyers on Tuesday night.