A Blue Jackets Change Ahead Of Biggest Game This Season- 3/17/22

Hello and happy St. Patrick's Day 5th Line!  Tonight's game is arguably the most important one to win this season.  The Capitals are just 11 points ahead of us in the second Stanley Cup Wild Card slot.  If we can win tonight and gain 2 points, while denying them 2 as well, that point lead they have decreases to 9.  This is something the Capitals are very aware of too, so the Blue Jackets must be on their game tonight.  Reduce penalties.  Capitalize on Powerplay opportunities.  Shoot the puck whenever an opportunity arises.   Maybe most important though, use a fresh Goaltender.  

That's right, Elvis Merzlikins will sit this one out tonight, passing the net to Joonas Korpisalo.  Merzlikins worked hard last night against the Senators.  The 4-1 win didn't come without some incredible saves and hard work.  Prior to that game Merzlikins also tended the net in the 6-4 win over Vegas and the 3-2 Shootout over the Wild.  The man is incredible, but has well earned this break.  We have Korpisalo, now it's time to use him.  Also, I'm well aware his last game as a 6-0 Shutout for us, against the Islanders.  That night though was far from his fault alone.  The Defense wasn't on point and the Offense wasn't in that game, either.  Time for some Korpisalo redemption with a side of Nationwide Arena 5th Line, right behind his net.  I also believe it's worth reminding everyone who doubts this decision that Korpisalo has a great record against this team.  In 5 games he's won 3, with only 1 loss and 1 Overtime loss.  Against the Capitals, I call that impressive, especially when you add in a high 1.74 Goals Against Average, partnered with a very respectful .945 Save Percentage, too.  

According to Jeff Svoboda, there is another "game time decision".  However, I don't know exactly what that would be.  I'll keep watching and let you know if I do see anything.  Tonight's game is at 7:00 PM EST.  So, drink responsibly and, fingers crossed, maybe we'll have more to celebrate tonight than just St. Patrick's Day.  

Go CBJ!

Sources:

Jeff Svoboda Tweet:  "Per #CBJ head coach Brad Larsen, only expected change is Joonas Korpisalo in net tonight vs. Washington. Korpi is 3-1-1 with a 1.74 GAA and .945 save percentage in his career vs. Caps.

There is one game-time decision as well."

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