Three Takeaways from the Blue Jackets 2-1 victory over the Panthers
One: After a really slow start to the game, they came alive in the second half of the first period. The bottom six forwards provided some good energy that led to a Columbus goal from Skille/Chaput/Calvert. It was a tic-tac-toe play that beat the Panthers goalie. They ended the period with a jump in their step.
Two: The jump in their step extended to the top six forwards in the middle stanza. While both teams didn't increase their shot totals by much, the Blue Jackets created some quality scoring chances in the latter stages. Bobrovsky seemed much more settled than last Friday night's game.
Three: They didn't play a pretty game of hockey, but in the end it was the fact they were willing to get their noses dirty and grind away at playing their game that mattered. It was an ugly win, for sure, but a win nonetheless. Secondary scoring was the answer on a night that saw Johansen and Foligno held off the score sheet.
Overtime: Can they make this a "December to Remember" thirty days hence?
