Embed from Getty Images For the first time in franchise history the Columbus Blue Jackets, made back to back Stanley Cup playoff appearances. Second year in a row the team failed to make it out of the first round.
This one hurts. The Blue Jackets were up 2 games to 0. Only to lose 4 in a row to Washington. The power play and the fact they could not stay out of the penalty box doomed Columbus.
Centers, Alexander Wennberg and Brandon Dubinski woefully underperformed. It all proved to much to overcome for the young Columbus Blue Jackets.
The roster will most certainly see turnover this offseason in hopes to regroup for another playoff run next season. But for now this is a tough pill to swallow. So much promise lost.
Fans can only hope the right changes are made. Brad Larson, who is overseer of the teams power play that was among the worst in the NHL could be on the hot seat. An upgrade is desperately need at center wher Dubinski had a very bad season as did Wennberg.
The defense and goalie were the bright spots. Along with Artemi Panarin and Cam Atkinson as well as Pierre Luc-Dubois. There is plenty of room to make changes as the team will be pushing $40 million in cap space.
There is always next year. That is starting to wear thin in Columbus.