Eastern Conference Playoff Race: Blue Jackets vs. Canadiens – It’s Going Down to the Wire!
Columbus Blue Jackets Keep Their Playoff Hopes Alive
The Columbus Blue Jackets defeated the Philadelphia Flyers on Tuesday, keeping their playoff hopes alive and well. They’re now within striking distance of the Montreal Canadiens for the final wild-card spot in the NHL’s Eastern Conference playoff race.
Only One Postseason Spot Remaining
The Western Conference playoff spots have been decided, with the Minnesota Wild and St. Louis Blues clinching the wild-card spots. As a result, the Calgary Flames have been eliminated from contention.
Wild and Blues Face Tough First-Round Opponents
Minnesota defeated the Anaheim Ducks in overtime, thanks to Matt Boldy’s game-winner, while St. Louis cruised past the Utah Hockey Club in a 6-1 blowout. However, their first-round matchups won’t be easy. The Blues face the Winnipeg Jets, who won the Central Division, while the Wild take on the Vegas Golden Knights, who won the Pacific Division.
Blue Jackets’ Incredible Comeback
“That [their chances of making the playoffs] is even coming down to each team’s respective final game is notable, as Columbus seemed out of striking range just a week ago.“
The Blue Jackets have won five straight games in eight days, picking up 10 critical points in the closing stretch. Their incredible comeback has put them right back in the playoff picture.
Montreal Canadiens’ Stumbling Blocks
Meanwhile, the Montreal Canadiens have lost three straight games, but two of those losses came in extra time, giving them a combined two additional points. This slim margin is the difference between the two teams in the standings.
The Scenario for the Final Playoff Spot
- Montreal will make the playoffs if they defeat the Carolina Hurricanes or lose in overtime on Wednesday.
- However, if Montreal loses in regulation, Columbus will control their own destiny, needing only a regulation win against the New York Islanders on Thursday to clinch a playoff spot.
Buckle Up: Drama Ahead!
“There will be no shortage of drama in the coming days as both teams eye a postseason berth.“
FAQs
What are the remaining games for Columbus and Montreal?
Columbus plays the New York Islanders on Thursday, while Montreal faces the Carolina Hurricanes on Wednesday.
What do these teams need to do to make the playoffs?
Montreal needs a win or an overtime loss vs. Carolina to clinch. Columbus needs a regulation win against the Islanders if Montreal loses in regulation.
Did you know?
This is the Columbus Blue Jackets’ first appearance in the playoffs since the 2018-19 season.
Pro Tip
Stay tuned to 247sports.news for exclusive updates and analyses on the thrilling Eastern Conference playoff race!
Call to Action
What do you think? Who will clinch the final wild-card spot? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your fellow hockey fans!