Two months ago, when the Blue Jackets were carved by injury and in the throes of an eight-game losing streak, they talked about how they still expected to win every night. Although it was the right thing to say, it sounded a tad hollow. They still reeked of expansion. Everything was new enough that a good effort seemed sufficient. Adversity was another form of dispensation.
Colorful autumn gives way to cruel winter, which in turn leads to the promise of spring.
Things changed on the pond. Injured enforcer Krzysztof Oliwa was taken out of the picture. More tangible developments also had great impact. For instance, the Blue Jackets got healthier. Defenseman Frank Kucera and right winger Robert Kron returned from monthlong absences and helped give life to the sagging penalty kill.