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Hartnell gets hat trick as Ducks can’t rebound from blowout

Anaheim Ducks v Columbus Blue Jackets

Scott Hartnell

NHLI via Getty Images

The Anaheim Ducks might have first place in the Pacific Division all-but officially guaranteed at this point, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t interested in going into the playoffs on a high note. Anaheim went as far as to scratch defenseman Cam Fowler tonight in response to their 7-2 blowout loss to the Rangers on Sunday, but that wasn’t enough as Columbus came away with a 5-3 victory over the Ducks.

Anaheim gained a 2-0 edge tonight, but Scott Hartnell led the Blue Jackets with Columbus’ first hat trick at Nationwide Arena since 2012. He started that run with a power-play goal at 15:35 of the first period.

Hartnell’s final goal came on an empty netter and while those tend not to be glamorous, he did have to work hard for this one:

Columbus forward Ryan Johansen also had a big night with his 24th goal and 39th assist of the season. He’s on a five-game point streak.

Anaheim will attempt to bounce back on Thursday in Boston. Given how badly the Bruins need a win after Ottawa passed them in the Eastern Conference Wild Card race, the Ducks should have their hands full in that contest.

Follow @RyanDadoun