Improving Milano sees bigger role
Sonny Milano has responded well after having his ice time diminished and is making strides toward being a more well-rounded player, something Blue Jackets coach John Tortorella was searching for with the 21-year-old sniper.
One play in particular on Friday against Ottawa stood out to Tortorella: the left winger’s crossice pass to Nick Foligno from his own corner that lead to the captain’s goal in the third period.
“Not too many players can do that,” Tortorella said. “That’s a talent, as far as holding onto it and just his passing ability. We’re all intrigued by his offensive abilities, but it’s him making steps away from the puck, and I think he’s made some steps away, and that’s why I think he gets to play in an offensive position.”
Milano’s role has increased lately, with him being moved into more of an offensive line with Foligno and Oliver Bjorkstrand. He logged 15 minutes of ice time against the Senators, his most in regulationonly games since Oct. 7 at Chicago, the second game of the season.
Harrington rides pine
Tortorella said that it’s tough to scratch defenseman Scott Harrington night after night, but the coach needs to do what’s best for the team. With the stellar play of Columbus’ third defensive pairing, Markus Nutivaara and Ryan Murray, there isn’t much of an opportunity for Harrington to carve out a role.
“It’s a lousy position, but (Harrington) has handled himself very well,” Tortorella said.
The 24-year-old defenseman has only played in two games this season, with no points.
Line play
The Blue Jackets’ offensive lines at the beginning of practice mirrored what they were in Ottawa, except with Bjorkstrand and Cam Atkinson flipping spots. Bjorkstrand was on the right wing with Boone Jenner on the other side, with center Brandon Dubinsky in the middle. Atkinson joined center Foligno and left winger Milano.