Opinion
3 min read

Can the Columbus Blue Jackets Glide Past the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center?

As the Columbus Blue Jackets prepare to face off against the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center, fans are eager to see if their team can carry forward the momentum from their recent performances. The upcoming game on February 22nd is a crucial test for CBJ, who have displayed both moments of brilliance and periods of concern in their past games.


Oct 24, 2023; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Anaheim Ducks right wing Brett Leason (20) celebrates the game tying goal during the third period against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at the December 24th clash with Toronto Maple Leafs, CBJ's resilience was evident despite a 4-1 loss. The team managed to put up 28 shots on goal and blocked an impressive 20 attempts by their opponents. However, they struggled in faceoffs with only a 45 percent win rate and were unable to capitalize on four powerplay opportunities. This lack of efficiency in critical moments is something that needs addressing.


In contrast, during their December 22nd game against Washington Capitals, CBJ showcased a stronger performance despite an overtime loss with a final score of 3-2. They took more shots than in the previous game (36), indicating an aggressive offensive strategy but still faced challenges in converting these opportunities into goals.


Oct 24, 2023; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Anaheim Ducks right wing Frank Vatrano (77) celebrates the game winning goal during the overtime period against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

However, it was CBJ's remarkable display against Buffalo Sabres on December 20th that truly captured what this team is capable of when firing on all cylinders. Dominating with nine goals from just 34 shots reflects an exceptional shooting percentage of 26 percent – showcasing lethal efficiency upfront.


The key takeaway for CBJ fans is that while there are areas for improvement – particularly in powerplay situations and faceoff win percentages – there's also undeniable potential within this squad. Their ability to generate high shot volumes combined with sporadic bursts of scoring prowess could be enough to unsettle any opponent.


Oct 24, 2023; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets center Boone Jenner (38) and Anaheim Ducks center Trevor Zegras (11) face off during the second period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

Against ANA at Honda Center, it will be essential for CBJ to maintain strong defensive play while sharpening their execution during powerplays and faceoffs if they wish to secure victory away from home soil.


Fans can catch all the action live as ESPN+ will broadcast nationally over internet streams while BSOH provides TV coverage locally on channel 660 starting at February 21st,10:00 PM Eastern Time (ET). Will Columbus Blue Jackets' tenacity translate into triumph? Only time will tell as they take to the ice under Anaheim's bright lights.

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