Their struggles intensified after losing their seventh consecutive game, this time a 3-2 defeat to the Arizona Coyotes. This loss marks their 11th in the last 12 games. Adding to the team's woes, star players Patrik Laine and Johnny Gaudreau were benched during the crucial third period as the team sought to equalize the game. According to Sportsnet Stats, Laine was sidelined for the last 9:53, while Gaudreau was out for the final 6:15 of the period.
In a situation that raises eyebrows, both Laine, with a season salary cap of $8.7 million, and Gaudreau, at $9.75 million, were expected to be pivotal in close games. However, coach Pascal Vincent made a controversial decision to bench them, suggesting a message to the team.
Vincent emphasized that game-time decisions are based on the team's needs, not individual reputations. When questioned about Gaudreau, the team's highest-paid player, Vincent expressed dissatisfaction with his performance, leading to the decision to bench him. These developments signal tough times for the Columbus Blue Jackets, with no clear resolution in sight.
