One: Columbus is utilizing their forecheck to create turnovers and chances. It's becoming more prevalent with each passing game. It's a big part of the reason that they've garnered 3 points in the last 3 games. With a fast-paced team like the Habs, an aggressive forecheck keeps them in check and honest. This needs to continue as they move through the season.
Two: Poor decisions led directly to the two Montreal goals. Passing the puck lackadaisically (leading to turnovers), meant Columbus spent more time trying to get the puck back than they needed to. Unfortunately, head coach Todd Richards' hands are tied with a lack of healthy players with which to scratch under-performing players, although Boone Jenner could return to the lineup as early as Sunday versus Ottawa.
Three: Both of Columbus' goals were of the "throw it at the net and see what happens" variety. The first, by RJ Umberger, seemed to surprise everyone on the ice, especially Peter Budaj in the Montreal goal. The second, from Artem Anisimov, played a bit of pinball before getting past Budaj. Good things happen when you throw the puck at the net. They need to not be afraid to do that more.
