One: One of the keys going into this game for Columbus was to limit the Capitals power play opportunities. The Blue Jackets penalty kill was perfect, with the Caps going 0-4. Conversely, Columbus' special teams play did very well, going 2-4 on the power play. The win gives them 5 wins in-a-row and 6 wins in their last 7 games, coinciding with Nathan Horton getting into the lineup.
Two: Although they got off to a slow start, Sergei Bobrovsky kept them in the game until they got their legs moving. He had another outstanding game in net. The big standout was in the 3rd period when Columbus was up 5-1 with 8 minutes to play. Their fore-check stayed very aggressive. This is a hallmark of a team that is playing with confidence and sealing the win.
Three: Nathan Horton was parked in front of the Washington net on power play, creating traffic. He knows that this is what good teams do, as he has a Stanley Cup ring to prove it. Whether it's waiting for a rebound or redirecting the puck, he's doing the right things and going to the hard areas around the net. He's also elevating everyone's play around him.
Overtime: Columbus head coach Todd Richards coached his 300th game in the NHL versus Washington, coming out with a win. He's now 142-129-29 between Columbus and the Minnesota Wild. Congratulations, Coach.
