The Columbus Blue Jackets look to take a 3-1 series lead over the Boston Bruins on Thursday night in Game 4.
Tonight is the night that Boston Bruins forward Brad Marchand faces retribution for his dirty hit on Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Scott Harrington as he was getting up from his knees after that whistle blew by Columbus’ net.
The Blue Jackets shouldn’t take that type of play lying down. Even though the refs didn’t call it, the Commissioner of the NHL Gary Bettman said it should have been a penalty. Now the Blue Jackets should come and take care of business.
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Marchand’s dirty style of play has been recognized by the world of hockey for years now, but only recently has this seemingly new level of cheap shot been thrown out into the public. This entire series has been a very physical one and has tested tempers on both sides plenty of times. However, there was no need for that type of play from any player. Good luck Brad, you’re going to need it.
Back to the preview. Columbus leads the series 2-1. The Bruins start every game very physical, but as long as Columbus holds them off the first period, they can take the game. The Blue Jackets have shown the ability to go deep into these games with energy and poise.
Meanwhile, the Bruins seemingly lose a step around halfway through the second period. The power play for the Blue Jackets through the playoffs has been spectacular, converting at a 38.1 percent rate.
Boston has the upper hand early though if they are able to get ahead and keep Columbus on their heels early on they may take game 4 on the road. As I said earlier though, the Blue Jackets can outlast this Boston team.
The defense for Columbus has been outstanding but nobody has played better than Sergei Bobrovsky. Bob has been magical and if he continues this type of play there is no reason the Blue Jackets can’t win this series in 5 games.