Blue Jackets’ Playoffs Hinge on Canadiens’ Collapse

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Blue Jackets’ Late-Season Surge Exposes Goaltending dilemma Despite Capitals Sweep

April 14, 2025

The Columbus Blue Jackets delivered a stunning blow to the Washington Capitals, sweeping them in a weekend series that saw them dominate on home ice with a 7-0 victory on Saturday, followed by a 4-1 road win on Sunday. These wins, while a luminous spot, highlight a more significant issue for the Blue Jackets: the uncertain future of their goaltending.

Despite the recent success,the Blue Jackets’ playoff aspirations remain a long shot. Their fate hinges not only on their performance but also on the misfortune of the Montreal Canadiens, who hold the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference.

As of today, April 14, the Blue Jackets have a record of 38-33-10, accumulating 85 points. Thay face the Philadelphia Flyers on Tuesday and the New York Islanders on thursday to close out the season.

The Canadiens, with a slightly better standing at 29-31-10 and 88 points, still have games against the Chicago Blackhawks and Carolina Hurricanes. The Blue Jackets need the Canadiens to falter if they hope to sneak into the playoffs.

The emergence of Adam Fantilli has been a positive development, injecting energy into the team. However, the spotlight has intensified on the goaltending situation, notably the performance and future of Elvis Merzlikins.

Jet Greaves, recalled from the Cleveland Monsters (AHL), has been a revelation in the net. In his recent appearances, Greaves showcased remarkable skill, posting a 3-0 record with a stellar 1.00 goals-against average and a .967 save percentage.

Merzlikins’ Struggles and the Goaltending Conundrum

The season began with the organization hoping Merzlikins could regain his form. However, his performance has been inconsistent, and his $5.4 million annual contract presents a challenge for any potential trade.

Merzlikins’ struggles culminated in a notable incident during a 7-3 loss to the Colorado Avalanche on April 3,were he broke his stick in frustration. This incident, coupled with other on-ice disagreements, has raised questions about his fit within the team.

Statistically, Merzlikins’ numbers this season are concerning, with a 26-21 record, a 3.18 goals-against average, and an .892 save percentage. These figures rank among the lowest in the league, further complicating his trade prospects.

A potential buyout would cost the Blue Jackets $6.5 million, resulting in a $1.625 million cap hit for the next four years. Though,with a rising salary cap in the NHL,this option might be more palatable than it once was.

Daniil Tarasov, the team’s backup, has also struggled, posting a 7-10 record with a 3.54 GAA and a .881 SV%. His inability to seize the starting role has further emphasized the team’s need for a reliable goaltender.

The recent stellar performance of Jet greaves has added another layer to the goaltending debate. His extraordinary stats and the positive feedback from teammates have positioned him as a potential solution in net. Sean Kuraly’s assessment encapsulates the sentiment around Greaves:

He’s a pro. He does things the right way. I’ve been around for a while and it’s funny how those guys usually find success.
Sean Kuraly, Columbus Blue Jackets

Off-Season Options and the Path Forward

As the season draws to a close, the Blue jackets face critical decisions regarding their goaltending situation. They must explore all available options, including free agency, trades, and internal solutions.

The free-agent market for goaltenders is often unpredictable, and the Blue Jackets will need to assess their options carefully. Potential targets could include veterans seeking a change of scenery or younger goalies looking for an opportunity to prove themselves.

Trade possibilities also exist, but finding a suitable partner willing to take on Merzlikins’ contract will be challenging. The Blue Jackets may need to offer additional assets to incentivize a trade.

Internally, the team must evaluate whether Greaves is ready to assume a larger role. His recent performance suggests he could be a viable option, but the team needs to assess his long-term potential.

Ultimately, the Blue Jackets

Blue Jackets Goaltending crossroads: An Interview with NHL Analyst, David Tremblay

April 14, 2025

Interview

Archyde: Welcome back, hockey fans. Today,we delve into the precarious situation facing the Columbus Blue Jackets,specifically their goaltending conundrum.Joining us is David Tremblay, seasoned NHL analyst. David, thanks for being with us.

David Tremblay: Thanks for having me.It’s a pleasure.

Archyde: The Blue Jackets’ recent sweep of the Capitals offers a glimmer of hope,but the goaltending concerns loom large.What’s your primary takeaway from this late-season surge, and how does it affect the perception of the team’s immediate future?

David Tremblay: The sweep against Washington is encouraging, definitely a morale booster. However, It’s also a bit of a mirage. While good offense can win games, the key is consistent goaltending, and that’s been Columbus’ Achilles heel. Their playoff chances are slim, depending on the canadiens faltering, so this late-season push highlights the need to address their goaltending for long-term success.

Archyde: Elvis Merzlikins’ struggles are well-documented. His contract is a meaningful factor. What realistic options do the blue Jackets have regarding his future, including potential trade scenarios, and what implications do these have on the team?

David Tremblay: Trading Merzlikins is tough with that contract.Finding a willing partner will require the Blue Jackets to potentially add assets, which further weakens the team. A buyout is an option but comes with it’s own financial impact over several years. The team will likely have to consider all options and this may lead them to keep him to get the best value of the goalie.

Archyde: Jet Greaves has emerged as a bright spot. How significant is his performance, and is he a viable long-term solution for Columbus, given his limited NHL experience?

David Tremblay: Greaves’ emergence is incredibly encouraging. His numbers are outstanding. While I would lean towards him as a viable long-term option, we need to remember it’s a small sample size. A full season places different demands, and he’ll have to prove he can handle the pressure. But his recent performance suggests he certainly deserves a serious look to start next season, or at least to compete for the starting position.

archyde: looking ahead to the offseason, what strategies should the Blue Jackets prioritize to resolve their goaltending crisis – focusing on free agency, trades, or internal development?

David Tremblay: The Blue Jackets need a multi-pronged approach. Examining the free-agency market is sensible, but they shouldn’t overpay. Exploring trades is a necessity. Ideally, they will free up cap space and bring in a more reliable goaltender. Most importantly, the team needs to invest in Greaves’ development which might potentially be a good option.

Archyde: the Blue jackets’ future in the NHL relies on solid goaltending.What do you think is the biggest hurdle for the Blue Jackets to clear in the coming year,and how can they tackle it with that in mind?

David Tremblay: The biggest hurdle is making a bold,decisive move at the goalie position. It might mean taking a loss on Merzlikins’ contract, or it may be a combination of the options mentioned. A lack of stability in net stunts their growth. If management recognizes this area is key, then acquiring reliable goaltending and developing a strong pipeline is essential to becoming a contender in the near term.

Archyde: David, thanks for your insights. Extremely insightful, we appreciate your time.

David Tremblay: My pleasure.

Reader Discussion

What do you think is the best path forward for the Blue Jackets’ goaltending situation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!