The Columbus Blue Jackets suffered a big loss last night to the New Jersey Devils in what could have been the biggest game of the season.

If they had won that game, they would have closed the gap to just two points in the battle for third place in the Metro Division. Unfortunately, they couldn’t get the job done and now sit six points back.

Blue Jackets Enter Critical Stretch Of The Season The Blue Jackets are entering a critical schedule point, and they must respond. 

Although things look bleak after the loss—especially with the Blue Jackets now only two points ahead of teams fighting for the final wild card spot—there is still a chance they can catch and pass the New Jersey Devils.

If the Blue Jackets can continue to win games down the stretch, they still have one more shot at beating the Devils.

On Monday, March 17, these two teams face off for the final time this season. If the Blue Jackets win, they will narrow the gap. Plus, with two games in hand on New Jersey, a victory next Monday would put them in a very good position to potentially jump them in the standings by the end of the season.

Mathieu Olivier Scores Two; CBJ Fall To Devils In Jersey The <a href="https://www.nhl.com/devils/">New Jersey Devils</a>&nbsp;jumped the <a href="https://www.nhl.com/bluejackets/">CBJ</a> early in the first for three goals and never looked back.&nbsp;

For that to happen, they need to win their next meeting. It’s a must-win. If they can pull it off, they’ll have a strong chance to close the gap and take advantage of their upcoming games against lesser opponents, keeping the door open for third place in the Metro.

However, if they don’t, don’t panic. They’re still in a wild card spot, meaning there’s still a very good chance that playoff hockey will be in Columbus this April.

Gaudreau/Higgins Trial Update There's been a new update in the Sean Higgins trial.&nbsp;