Game Preview: Columbus Blue Jackets vs. New York Rangers
Tonight, the Columbus Blue Jackets are set to take on the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden, starting at 7 PM. As the game approaches, the two teams are in different positions within the NHL standings.
Current Standings
The Rangers, sitting at 23 wins, 29 losses, and 7 overtime losses (53 points), are struggling in recent matchups, having secured only 2 victories in their last 10 outings (2-7-1). In contrast, the Blue Jackets are performing well, boasting a record of 29 wins, 21 losses, and 8 overtime losses (66 points), with an impressive 7-2-1 record in their last 10 games and currently holding the 5th spot in the Metropolitan Division.
Blue Jackets’ Recent Performance
Since January 11, the Blue Jackets have been in excellent form, claiming points in 12 of their last 14 games (11-2-1), most recently resulting in an overtime loss to the New York Islanders, with a score of 4-3. This matchup is the beginning of a challenging schedule for Columbus, featuring eight games over the next 13 days, including two back-to-back matchups on March 2 and 3, and again on March 9 and 10. Notably, the Blue Jackets have performed admirably in back-to-back games this season, with a record of 14-5-3.
Statistical Highlights
Statistically, since December 22, Columbus has recorded 15 wins, 6 losses, and 2 overtime losses (32 points) and ranks among the top NHL teams with a 0.908 save percentage, 5th in goals-against average at 2.65, and 83.8% on the penalty kill. The team has consistently taken the lead early, scoring the first goal in 12 of their last 14 games.
Key Players
Several players have been key contributors to this success. Charlie Coyle has notably provided one assist in their recent game, accumulating a total of 13 points in the past eight matches. Adam Fantilli has been heating up, scoring in the last two games and totaling nine points over the previous eight contests, setting a personal record for assists this season. Boone Jenner, who is on the brink of tying the franchise’s all-time assist record, remains a backbone of the team, while players like Mason Marchment have also made significant impressions, recently scoring his 10th goal with the franchise in minimal game time.
Rangers’ Challenges
On the opposing side, the Rangers also bring notable talent to the ice, with Mika Zibanejad leading the team with 24 goals and 53 points overall. Goaltender Igor Shesterkin has kept a commendable save percentage of .917 over 35 games. In the context of recent matchups between these two teams, the Blue Jackets have seen success, especially at Madison Square Garden, where they achieved their highest scoring game against the Rangers in a 7-3 victory last season.
As for the Rangers, their performance has been less stellar, as indicated by their current position in the standings and their recent struggles. Their average performance in critical areas like power play and penalty kill has likely contributed to their disappointments this season.
Game Broadcast
Fans can catch all the action live on FANDUEL SPORTS NETWORK, with the game being broadcasted on radio via 97.1 The Fan. As the Blue Jackets head into this game with a chance to improve their standing further, the matchup promises to be entertaining and pivotal in the context of their playoff aspirations. Stay tuned for more updates and insights on all things Blue Jackets.
