Opinion
3 min read

Can the Blue Jackets Ice the Kings' Reign at Crypto.com Arena?

As the Columbus Blue Jackets gear up to face off against the Los Angeles Kings at Crypto.com Arena, fans are eager to see if their team can carry forward the momentum from a recent high-scoring victory. The upcoming clash scheduled for February 21st promises to be a pivotal moment in CBJ's season.


Mar 16, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender Daniil Tarasov (40) defends the goal against the Los Angeles Kings during the second period at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at CBJ's performance on December 20th against the Buffalo Sabres, it was an offensive showcase with Columbus netting an impressive nine goals on 34 shots, boasting a shooting percentage of 26 percent. This game highlighted their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities and maintain pressure in the offensive zone. Their power play contributed one goal, while their even-strength play was dominant with eight goals.


However, consistency has been an issue for CBJ as seen in their subsequent games. On December 22nd against the Washington Capitals, they managed only two goals despite firing off 36 shots and lost in overtime. Then again on December 24th versus Toronto Maple Leafs, they were limited to just one goal from 28 shots.


Mar 16, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets center Sean Kuraly (7) shoots on goal againt the Los Angeles Kings during the first period at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

The Los Angeles Kings will not make things easy for Columbus; they are known for their strong defensive play and have been formidable opponents at home this season. The Kings' ability to stifle opposing offenses will certainly test CBJ's resolve and adaptability.


CBJ fans should look closely at how their team responds after being outscored by Toronto Maple Leafs' four goals to one during even strength play – a stark contrast from their explosive output against Buffalo Sabres earlier that week. Additionally, special teams could be crucial; while Columbus struggled with power plays recently (failing to score on four opportunities against Toronto), they must find ways to penetrate LA's penalty kill units effectively.


Mar 16, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Erik Gudbranson (44) shoots on goal against the Los Angeles Kings during the first period at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

The goaltending matchup will also be critical as both teams have shown that they can rely on their netminders when under siege; both squads boast save percentages hovering around or above one during even-strength situations in recent games.


In conclusion, if CBJ can harness the same energy and precision that led them to victory over Buffalo Sabres while tightening up defensively and capitalizing on power plays more efficiently than in past outings, there is every reason for optimism among its fanbase heading into this encounter with Los Angeles Kings.


Fans of Columbus Blue Jackets should mark their calendars for February 21st when these two teams hit the ice at Crypto.com Arena starting at 10:30 PM Eastern Time (7:30 PM local time). The game will be broadcasted nationally via ESPN+ online platform and locally through BSOH channel number 660 where followers of CBJ can catch all live-action unfold as it happens.

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