COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Columbus Blue Jackets found themselves in a precarious position early in their game against the Vancouver Canucks, trailing by three goals just 14 minutes after puck drop. However, given what the team has endured over the past seven months, this situation was merely another challenge to overcome.
In a remarkable display of resilience, the Blue Jackets orchestrated an impressive comeback, overcoming the three-goal deficit to eventually secure a 7-6 victory in a shootout, marking the eighth such comeback in the franchise’s history. This win propelled them into a playoff position for the first time since March 14, equaling them with Montreal at 75 points after the Canadiens’ defeat to Carolina.
“It’s certainly not ideal to start off on the back foot, but we had the mindset of not giving up after the first period. We were determined not to lose,” highlighted defenseman Dante Fabbro, who contributed a goal and two assists during the matchup.
The Blue Jackets’ resilience was evident earlier this season when they pulled off a similar three-goal comeback against Tampa Bay on November 21, which also concluded with a 7-6 scoreline, although it was settled in overtime.
The emotional strain on the team has been significant, following the tragic passing of star forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew while cycling last August. This incident, which occurred just before their sister Katie’s wedding, rocked the team and the wider community.
First-year coach Dean Evason has been a stabilizing influence, urging the team to maintain composure and focus on building mental fortitude. “We’ve emphasized learning from every experience,” Evason noted. “Developing the ability to cope when things go awry is crucial. It’s no surprise that this team handles adversity well. If the players aren’t panicking, there’s no reason for us, the coaches, to panic either.”
The game saw the Blue Jackets dig themselves out of a 3-0 hole in the first period, by leveling the score with three quick goals in the second. Although Vancouver reclaimed the lead with two goals, Columbus responded with another trio of goals. The Canucks pushed the game to overtime with Aatu Raty scoring his second goal of the third period, making it 6-6.
“That’s on us. It’s become a pattern that needs addressing,” commented team captain Boone Jenner. “It’s tough to spot opponents an early lead, but what I appreciate is how we regrouped. Our resilience speaks volumes about the character of this team.”
Despite sporting a record of 4-7-1 in March, the team remains in the playoff race, energized by the end of their 0-for-25 drought on power-play opportunities thanks to a goal from Jenner, who has been on a hot streak with points in three consecutive games since recovering from shoulder surgery.
The Blue Jackets have little time to revel in this comeback win, as they face Ottawa next. With 11 games remaining, six will be played at home, giving them a critical opportunity to clinch a playoff berth amidst a tightly contested field of seven teams separated by just six points for the final wildcard spot.
“These are the type of games you wish you could savor longer, given their emotional weight, but the reality is we must quickly refocus, with another pivotal game looming,” stated right winger Mathieu Olivier, contributing a goal and an assist. “This is the thrilling part of the season, and we’re gearing up for the challenge ahead.”