Blue Jackets HC Larson's Comments On Goaltending For Remainder of 2021-22 NHL Season- 4/6/22

This should come as no surprise to many.  Elvis Merzlikins has done very well in net since returning from his latest injury.  For that reason the comments from Head Coach Brad Larson in postgame last night are ones I'd make myself.  Jeff Svoboda, who inquired about Merzlikins role going forward for the remainder of the season, thankfully posted Head Coach Larson's quoted reaction late last night.  He said:

"#CBJ head coach Brad Larsen on Elvis Merzlikins after a 47-save night for his goalie.

"He stood to the challenge. This is great for him." Any thought of going with Berube?  

"No. (Elvis is) gonna play 'em all. I want him in the net."  End Tweet.

With his long contract extension in August 2021, it was clear the team made it's choice regarding the future of Columbus Blue Jackets Goaltending.  For that reason this choice is wise.  Merzlikins is healthy.  Further, he had very high asperations for this season, ones he will not meet due to illness and injury this season.  However, him finishing this season out strong will have a great influence on how next season will start, for him, in the CBJ net.  He's the guy, the Blue Jackets starting goaltender, for that reason he has to get used to the constant playing.  It's a challenge, but one I believe he's ready for.  The rest of this season will be bittersweet, as it's clear it will come to an end in only 11 games.  Next season though, the sky's the limit.  This season was one to meet the challenge, next season will be one to exceed that challenge.  I'm confident they will do so between Merzlikins, the players already on the roster and those players we haven't even met yet.  No, we won't make the playoffs, but this isn't a timee to be upset or angry, it's a time to be excited for what's to come!  

Go CBJ!  

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