Blue Jackets Enter Playoff Spot for First Time Since November After Beating Rangers

Columbus' stunning turnaround under Rick Bowness vaults them into the Eastern Conference playoff picture, boosting futures bets in a crowded wild card race.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Mar 201 min read

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Photo: @NHL

What happened: The Columbus Blue Jackets defeated the New York Rangers 6-3, with Adam Fantilli scoring twice, to climb into a Stanley Cup playoff position for the first time since November 17. The win extends their points streak to 11 games. Since hiring interim coach Rick Bowness on January 12, Columbus has gone 17-2-4.

Why it matters: Once dead last in the East, the Blue Jackets now hold third in the Metropolitan Division, evoking memories of the 2019 St. Louis Blues' late surge to the Cup. This shifts betting lines dramatically for playoff futures and props, as CBJ joins a tight race with Pittsburgh, NY Islanders and Boston.

By the numbers: Recent record since Jan. 12: 17-2-4 (.786 points %). Points streak: 11 games. Position: 3rd Metro / playoff spot.

What to watch: Watch Columbus' ability to hold the spot with 14 games left, especially against divisional foes like Carolina; key rivals' results will dictate wild card chase.

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NHLBreakingColumbus Blue JacketsNew York RangersPittsburgh PenguinsAdam Fantilli

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