Blue Jackets' Playoff Hopes Hang by a Thread

On March 30, the Columbus Blue Jackets had a prime shot at grabbing four big points in two

home games this weekend, but they blew leads and walked away with just one.

Saturday, they fell three-two to the San Jose Sharks after leading one-nothing and two-one.

Sunday, up three-nothing on the Boston Bruins, they lost four-three in a shootout.

Both times, they were ahead heading into the third period, but couldn't hold on.

Sharks tied it with one-minute 25 seconds left Saturday.

Bruins scored with 11 seconds to go Sunday to force overtime.

Fans and analysts are frustrated because these collapses highlight ongoing issues like failing to close out games.

The Jackets sits second wildcard with 88 points, but Ottawa, Detroit, Philly, all at 86 with a game in hand.

Pittsburgh also at 88 with one extra game.

Islanders lead at 89.

Their playoff odds dropped to about 49 percent from over 80, thanks to a 131 skid in five games.

They don't control their destiny anymore, and need help with eight games left, aiming for five wins to hit 98 points, which usually clinches.

Now they face a home and home with Carolina this week that could make or break their season.

If they learn to shut doors late, fix special teams, score in tight spots, and build that mental edge, they might still sneak into the playoffs.

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This is NHL News today. I'm Corey with the story.