Okay, I will write a news article about the Blue Jackets and Canadiens game, focusing on the key factors for a Blue Jackets victory.

The Columbus Blue Jackets are set to face off against the Montreal Canadiens at Nationwide Arena tonight, and a victory is crucial for the home team as they aim to climb the Metropolitan Division standings. Currently sitting 7th in the Metro with 20 points, the Blue Jackets are looking to capitalize on the Canadiens' recent struggles. Montreal has lost five of their last six games and are currently on a three-game losing streak. To secure a win, Columbus needs to focus on several key areas.

First and foremost, the Blue Jackets must bring a high level of physicality to the game, especially early on. The Canadiens have been dealing with injuries to key players, including Kirby Dach and Alex Newhook, which has impacted their forward depth. By establishing a strong forecheck and playing a physically assertive game, the Blue Jackets can exploit Montreal's weakened lineup and disrupt their offensive flow. Coach Dean Evason may need to shorten the leash on less physical players if the game demands a more robust approach. When the Blue Jackets prioritize the forecheck and execute it effectively, they tend to control the game and dictate the play.

Secondly, a full 60-minute effort is non-negotiable. A recurring issue for the Blue Jackets has been their tendency to fade in the third period. The Canadiens, on the other hand, have been particularly vulnerable in the second period, allowing 11 goals in their last six middle frames. Columbus must capitalize on this vulnerability by maintaining consistent pressure throughout the entire game and taking advantage of Montreal's second-period struggles. The Blue Jackets need to avoid falling into the trap of starting strong but failing to sustain their momentum.

Finally, the Blue Jackets need to improve their shot selection and display a killer instinct in the offensive zone. Instead of over passing or forcing plays to the point, players should prioritize shooting from high-danger areas. With the Canadiens' Jakub Dobes confirmed as the starting goalie, testing him early and often will be crucial. Dobes has been solid this season with a 6-1-1 record, but the Blue Jackets need to challenge him and generate rebounds and second-chance opportunities.

The Blue Jackets have a favorable historical record against the Canadiens at home, with an 11-7-0-2 record. However, recent matchups have been closely contested, with the last two games being decided by a single goal. Columbus enters the game with a 5-3-2 record in their last 10 games, while Montreal has a 4-4-2 record over the same span. Key players for the Blue Jackets to watch include Kirill Marchenko, who leads the team with eight goals and 12 assists, and Adam Fantilli, who has been productive in the last 10 games. For the Canadiens, Nick Suzuki (four goals and 17 assists) and Cole Caufield (eight goals and three assists in the last 10 games) are the offensive drivers.

A focused and disciplined performance in these three key areas – physicality, consistent effort, and strategic shooting – will significantly increase the Blue Jackets' chances of securing a much-needed victory against the slumping Canadiens.