## Korpisalo Returns to the Blue Jackets Net, Merzlikins Benched
Finnish goaltender Joonas Korpisalo is set to make his return to the Columbus Blue Jackets lineup tonight after being sidelined since late January due to a lower-body injury. The game against the New York Islanders is scheduled for 2:30 Latvian time.
This news means Latvian netminder Elvis Merzlikins will be relegated to the bench. Merzlikins has been the primary starter for Columbus this season, appearing in 37 games and boasting a .902 save percentage with a 3.47 goals-against average.While Merzlikins has contributed to 19 victories for the blue jackets, the team has suffered losses in their last three outings with him in goal.
Korpisalo, on the other hand, has seen action in 14 games this season, securing six wins for columbus. His save percentage sits at .887, and he carries a 3.82 goals-against average.
The last encounter between the Blue Jackets and Islanders took place on October 22, 2021, resulting in a 3-2 overtime victory for Columbus. Currently, both teams are closely positioned in the Metropolitan Division standings. The Blue Jackets occupy the ninth spot with 59 points from 57 games, while the Islanders trail behind in eleventh place with 50 points.
In other NHL action, Zemgus Girgenson and the Buffalo Sabres will host the Vegas Golden Knights at 2:00 Latvian time. While Girgenson has resumed training after recovering from an injury, his participation in tonight’s game is uncertain, with reports suggesting a potential return next week.Simultaneously occurring, rudolf Balcers and the San Jose Sharks are scheduled to face the Los Angeles Kings at 5:30 Latvian time.
For a thorough look at the current NHL standings, please refer to the embedded table below.
Back to the Blue Line: A Chat with Hockey Analyst Steve Smith
Tonight’s Columbus Blue Jackets game against the New York Islanders has rustled up more than just a few eyebrows in the hockey world. With joonas Korpisalo returning from injury and Elvis Merzlikins headed for the bench, a heated debate is brewing about who deserves to be the Jackets’ starting goaltender. To delve into this hot topic, we’re joined by former NHL goalie and current hockey analyst, Steve smith.
Steve,thanks for joining us. This situation with the Blue Jackets is fascinating. What are your initial thoughts on Korpisalo reclaiming the starting position after Merzlikins has carried the load for much of the season?
Steve Smith: It’s a tough call, no doubt about it. Merzlikins has been putting in the work, and his stats reflect that. But let’s not forget,Korpisalo has meaningful NHL experience and a proven track record. Coach (Brad) Larsen is likely looking at the bigger picture here. Maybe he feels Korpisalo gives them a better chance against the Islanders, or perhaps this is a move to light a fire under Merzlikins and get his performance back on track.
Engaging point about the bigger picture.
Do you think this benching will affect Merzlikins’ confidence,or do you see him using it as motivation to come back stronger?
Steve Smith: It could go either way,really. Some players thrive on competition and use something like this as fuel to prove their worth. Others might take it personally and let it affect their performance.
We’ve seen Merzlikins struggle recently. Do you think this is simply a slump, or are there underlying issues that need addressing?
Steve Smith: He’s been letting in some soft goals lately, which is uncharacteristic for him.
It’s possible he’s fatigued or dealing with something we’re not aware of.
It’s still early in his career, and goaltending is a notoriously challenging position. He’s shown flashes of brilliance, so I wouldn’t wriet him off just yet.
Do you think Korpisalo will hold onto the starting job for the rest of the season?
Steve Smith:
This likely depends on Korpisalo’s performance tonight and in the coming games. If he can regain his pre-injury form and help the Blue Jackets string together some wins, he might solidify his position. But if things don’t go as planned, merzlikins will be waiting in the wings, ready for another shot.
We appreciate your insights, steve! This certainly adds another layer of intrigue to tonight’s matchup.
What do you guys think? Will Korpisalo lead the Blue Jackets to victory? Let us know in the comments!
