Blue Jackets Weekly: Navigating Through Rough Patches Despite Win

Blue Jackets Weekly: Navigating Through Rough Patches Despite Win

By Michael Harrison

November 25, 2024 at 02:58 AM

The Columbus Blue Jackets had a challenging week but ended their four-game losing streak with a 6-4 victory over the San Jose Sharks. Here's what you need to know about the team's current situation:

Key Challenges:

  • Goaltender Joonas Korpisalo placed on injured reserve (non-COVID illness)
  • Defense struggling, allowing 4+ goals in three of last five games
  • Second-most shots allowed per game in NHL (34.4)

Positive Developments:

  • Daniil Tarasov showing promise in goal, stopping 63 of 68 shots in two starts
  • Patrik Laine skating again and listed as day-to-day (oblique injury)
  • Team snapped losing streak with Sunday's win

Trade Implications: Korpisalo (3-4-0, 3.95 GAA, .885 save %) could be an attractive trade target for teams seeking goaltending depth, given his $2.8 million cap hit and expiring contract.

Upcoming Schedule:

  • Tuesday, Dec 7: at Toronto Maple Leafs (17-7-2), 7:00 PM ET
  • Thursday, Dec 9: vs Anaheim Ducks (13-8-4), 7:00 PM ET
  • Saturday, Dec 11: at Seattle Kraken (9-13-2), 10:00 PM ET

Laine is expected to return during the upcoming five-game road trip, though likely not for Tuesday's game against Toronto.

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