We’ve been here before, actually. This is the first time this season–since last February, in fact–that the Blue Jackets can win three games in a row. They had a chance earlier several weeks back, but could not convert. The chance is there again against a suddenly-struggling Coyotes team. 11-0-1 in February, the Yotes are suddenly 0-3-0 in March, and are coming off a 2-1 loss in Pittsburgh last night.
Returning to Columbus tonight is centerman Antoine Vermette, traded to Phoenix just before the deadline. Vermy has no points and is -1 in six games since being moved. Missing from the lineup tonight is Rostislav Klesla. The other former Jackets–Raffi Torres, Gilbert Brule, and Ray Whitney–will be there.
For Columbus, Steve Mason is again in net, and Ryan Johansen is again looking to be the healthy scratch. I’ve no idea what he’s done–or is not doing–to merit this treatment, but it is what it is.