|
That's new...unbelievable finish. |
|
|
|
|
|
The team that scores first wins...3 goal leads are safe...3rd period comebacks don't occur in the playoffs...
All of these trends were shattered last night by PLD and the Columbus Blue Jackets. I stated in yesterday's post that I was looking for an unlikely hero to emerge and satisfy the scoring need. My guess was Gus, but I'm okay with PLD taking that role. He not only had three big goals (and the FIRST Blue Jackets playoff hat trick), but was carrying play even when the team was struggling. That's what the Jackets missed in Game two and have been lacking most of the season.
As an aside, how about the performance of the 2016 draft class? Having both Matthews and PLD playing in this series sparked me to look at the first round of the draft. Here are a the highlights in drafted order:
1. Auston Matthews
2. Patrik Laine
3. Pierre-Luc Dubois (PLD)
6. Matthew Tkachuk
7. Clayton Keller
14. Charlie McAvoy
26. Tage Thompson
With the exception of Thompson all are playing in the playoffs this season. I will grant you that was not a tough feat this year with 24 teams making it, but it is the second year in a row for 5 of the seven listed. I'd say that was a solid draft. Oh, and by the way there were a few names in the second round too: Andrew Peeke (CBJ), Alex DeBrincat (CHI) and Carter Hart (PHI). I only added Peeke because I'm a homer.
Let's talk goalie:
Korpi was very, very good in Game 1 and Game 2. Not sure what happened in Game 3 but he seemed to lose his confidence. Maybe Seth scoring kicking one by him left his gun-shy. Torts gave him the hook about half way through the 2nd and Elvis kept a clean sheet the rest of the way providing PLD the opportunity to make the epic comeback. Good money on Elvis getting the nod tonight AND until he proves he can't handle it.
The Series:
CBJ fans, this is your PSA: THE SERIES ISN'T OVER. Yes, a 2-1 series lead is nice, but not insurmountable. TOR just has to skate to victory in Game 4, then all bets are off in a deciding Game 5. The Jackets have an opportunity to eliminate the Leafs and had better do so tonight. Momentum is on their side, but failure to finish the job will put the pressure squarely on the CBJ in Game 5.
PLD will get attention from the TOR defense tonight, other scorers will need to contribute. Bjork needs to find his touch. It would help if the defensemen adjusted their aim slightly as they have been ringing off the post and cross bar frequently. No criticism for those guys, just slight adjustment.
Not so BOLD Prediction:
Columbus will end the series tonight...or TOR will take it in 5. I don't think CBJ would be able to stop the Leafs if they let it get to 5. However, every time I feel that way the Jackets show their resilience (see period 3 last night).
Prime time game tonight, so we are waiting all the way to 8pm but have good hockey action leading up to it.
Happy watching today...Good Luck and GO JACKETS!
Columbus Blue Jackets Blogger • 
Join the Discussion:
»