With their 18th win Friday, the Columbus Blue Jackets moved back into first of the Metro Division, right ahead of the Washington Capitals (WSH have same points but more games played) and the New Jersey Devils, who sit one point behind Columbus and Washington.
After losing in Columbus to the Devils just days ago to lose first place, the Blue Jackets bounced back behind some great vision and playmaking by Artemi Panarin on Friday. His five-assist performance was one of the most impressive games in CBJ history by any player.
But now that the team is back in the driver’s seat of the division, the question to ask is: How long can they stay there?