The Columbus Blue Jackets’ 16-Game Winning Streak: A Review

Very recently, in the NHL, a hockey team called the Columbus Blue Jackets reeled off 16-straight victories. They had a chance to continue that streak last night in Washington, D.C., but were unable to do so, falling5-0 to the Capitals. This was quite the accomplishment. In fact, according to an article from The New York Times, the Blue Jackets would have tied the 1992-93 Pittsburgh Penguins for the most regular season wins in NHL history. Right now, if one were to view the current NHL standings, Columbus is leading the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference, with 58 total points,ahead of Pittsburghand the New York Rangers(both teams have 55 points). This has been a terrific run of wins for the Blue Jackets, considering the fact their head coach is under enormous pressure to perform well in order to keep his job.

Nevertheless, what Columbus did the past 16 games was impressive. They were not expected to be one of the teams vying for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, as they have experienced playoff teams Pittsburgh, New York, and Washington catching up to them in the standings. Plus, the Blue Jackets have fought through injuries to key contributors on offense and defense, by calling up young, talented prospects who can make a difference on the ice.

And so, even though they lost last night to end a remarkable winning streak, the Columbus Blue Jackets proved that they can beat anybody in the National Hockey League, by having an excellent offense and a superb defense/special teams. This team will make the playoffs, despite the fact there are games still to be played in the regular season, and a lot can happen in that time span. Yet, they have generated buzz not only in the city of Columbus, Ohio, but also around the NHL and in the sports world. Don’t sleep on this club.