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Sergei Bobrovsky Key Benefactor of World Cup Hockey

By Suraj Sukumar

Sep 22, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Team Russia goalie Sergei Bobrovsky (72) makes a save during a 3-0 win over Team Finland in preliminary round play in the 2016 World Cup of Hockey at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 22, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Team Russia goalie Sergei Bobrovsky (72) makes a save during a 3-0 win over Team Finland in preliminary round play in the 2016 World Cup of Hockey at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sergei Bobrovsky played just 37 NHL games last year due to injury, but his performance for Russia at the World Cup of Hockey should instill some much-needed confidence

Sergei Bobrovsky had his worst season to date since joining the Columbus Blue Jackets. In fact, the Blue Jackets were a playoff team in 2013-14, but saw their overall success diminish over the past two seasons. This was a collective failure both on the players and organization, but the Blue Jackets will look to bounce back this season.

In 37 games, Bobrovsky maintained a 15-19-1 record, with a 2.75 goals against average and 0.908 save percentage. Both statistics are career lows since 2011-12, but his performance at the World Cup of Hockey is a breath of fresh air.

In three games for Russia (heading into Saturday vs. Canada), Bobrovsky had a 1.68 goals against average and a 0.948 save percentage. His play over three games helped Russia secure a spot in the elimination round, making him one of the best goalies in the tournament.

Can he carry over the same production to the NHL?

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He may not have the same firepower up front, but his overall ability is what made him an undisputed starting goaltender over the past four seasons. The Blue Jackets traded star center Ryan Johansen for Seth Jones, a hugely talented defensive prospect who should improve the blue line for years to come.

In addition to Jones, the Blue Jackets have a youthful defensive group. Ryan Murray has been injury prone but has the talent to be a top defenseman. Cody Goloubef, Dalton Prout and David Savard are making their way as well, but a healthy Jack Johnson would certainly improve their overall production.

Last but certainly not least, highly touted prospect Zach Werenski could sneak onto the opening night roster with a solid training camp. He is a hard worker with strong skating and awareness, and his two-way ability would be a great addition to the Blue Jackets defensive group. With that said, the Blue Jackets have a developing defensive group that should impress this coming year, and it will be a huge boost for Bobrovsky as a result.

New Coach

This will be John Tortorella’s first training camp with the Blue Jackets after replacing Todd Richards early in 2015-16. Unfortunately, his performance at the World Cup of Hockey with team USA has cast a preemptive dark cloud.

For the Blue Jackets to have success, Tortorella will have to put his usual bias aside and give every player a chance. The Blue Jackets have plenty of depth and young players looking to prove themselves, and it will be up to the coaching staff to balance out the right lines. With the NHL even more competitive, time is of the essence, and this training camp should be an important one for the Blue Jackets’ new identity.

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If Bobrovsky can stay healthy, the Blue Jackets have all the tools to surprise in 2016-17. He is a proven goalie and the added help on the blue line can relieve some tension on the Russian backstop. If the Blue Jackets’ top-six can generate some early chemistry, there is not telling what this young group of players can accomplish this season.

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