© Nick Turchiaro-Imagn ImagesColumbus Blue Jackets forward Adam Fantilli has had this game against his hometown team, the Toronto Maple Leafs, circled on his calendar for a while.
It’s a special night for the rookie—not just because he’s playing against the team he grew up watching, but because this game could help decide whether his team stays in the playoff hunt.
As mentioned in my last article, the Blue Jackets need to bring their best and try to steal two crucial points. Fantilli echoed that mindset during an appearance on First Up on TSN1050.
He first addressed the 7–3 loss to the Colorado Avalanche earlier this week.
“Last night got a little bit away from us,” Fantilli said. “We started great, I liked our start. A couple bounces didn’t go our way and I think we tried to cheat a little bit, find some ways to score, and they took advantage of it.”
Then, he shifted his focus to the challenge ahead against Toronto.
“We have to refocus for Toronto [on Saturday], it’s a big game, all these points really matter for us. We’re doing everything we can to make sure we’re in this sprint to try to get in the playoffs,” he said.
Fantilli understands the intensity both sides will bring.
“[The Maple Leafs are] in a position where they have to keep winning games as well. They’re already in the playoffs, and they’re fighting for a good spot, and we’re just fighting to get in there,” he said. “This point in the season is a sprint. I don’t think it really matters who you’re playing against—everyone’s going to be giving their best game.”
Led by Fantilli, the Blue Jackets will try to keep their season alive tonight on Hockey Night in Canada.
