The New York Rangers moved to within five points of a wild card spot with 68 points to the Blue Jacket’s 73. Although there were only three games involving Eastern Conference teams, he standings were jumbled once again.
The playoff picture
The Carolina Hurricanes dropped out of the playoffs with their loss to the Rangers, combined with the Islanders 4-1 win over the Detroit Red Wings. The Isles leapfrogged Carolina and Columbus and moved in the first wildcard spot.
Although Columbus is still in a playoff position, they learned today that their top goal scorer, Oliver Bjorkstrand, will be out the rest of the season with a broken ankle.