Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Pittsburgh Penguins: A Pivotal Matchup
Tonight at Nationwide Arena, the Columbus Blue Jackets will host the Pittsburgh Penguins in a pivotal matchup that could influence both teams’ standings in the Metropolitan Division. The Penguins arrive in Columbus struggling, having recorded a disappointing 3-4-3 record over their last ten outings, including five losses in their past seven games. Currently, they hold 27 points, placing them in 5th position within the division. As the battle for playoff positioning tightens, every point is crucial, particularly with the New Jersey Devils leading the division at 31 points, while the Blue Jackets and Rangers are trailing with 26 points each, sitting at the bottom of the standings.
Team Performance and Statistics
For the Blue Jackets, who have fared slightly better lately with a 4-2-4 record in their last ten games, this contest presents an opportunity to capitalize on the Penguins’ recent woes. Securing a win without allowing the Penguins to earn any points could be key in their attempt to climb the standings.
Statistically, both teams show stark contrasts in power-play effectiveness and penalty kill success. Columbus ranks 25th in the NHL with a power-play success rate of 16.1% and a penalty kill percentage of 74.6%, which is 27th in the league. In comparison, Pittsburgh boasts the league’s top power play at 31.4% and an impressive penalty kill at 85.2%, ranking 5th overall. Furthermore, while Columbus has managed to score 67 goals, placing them 25th in the NHL, they’ve also allowed 77 goals against, earning them the 24th spot defensively. Conversely, the Penguins have recorded 68 goals but excel defensively, allowing only 57 against, the 2nd fewest in the NHL.
Historical Matchup and Key Players
Historically, the matchup favors Pittsburgh, who hold a 30-19 advantage in total wins against Columbus, although the Blue Jackets have been competitive recently, posting a 5-4-1 record over their last ten games against the Penguins.
In terms of individual players to watch, the Penguins’ star Sidney Crosby leads his team with 13 goals, while Evgeni Malkin contributes significantly with 18 assists and a total of 24 points. Goalie Tristan Jarry holds a 6-2-0 record with a .914 save percentage, with his last game on November 27 against the Buffalo Sabres. On the Blue Jackets’ side, Zach Werenski is notable with 4 goals and 9 assists in 22 career games against the Penguins.
Injury Updates and Broadcast Information
The Blue Jackets face some injury challenges, with Erik Gudbranson and Boone Jenner both on injured reserve. Gudbranson has missed 16 games due to an upper body injury, and Jenner has sat out the last 8 games. Kirill Marchenko and Mathieu Olivier are also listed as injured, further impacting the team’s lineup.
Fans can catch tonight’s game on the FanDuel Sports Network, where play-by-play commentary will be provided by Steve Mears, while the radio broadcast will air on 93.3 The Bus with Bob McElligott. Stay current with updates on the Blue Jackets by following their coverage and joining the conversation.
