Panthers can further damage Columbus’ fading playoff hopes Sunday

The Panthers and Columbus Blue Jackets will go at it again on Sunday in a game between two teams heading in different directions.

Florida has won five consecutive games, a fantastic response to the one losing streak this team has had all season.

Columbus, after losing 5-2 here Saturday night, has lost its past two games and six of the past seven.

Although the team played well in Tampa — and likely deserved better than a 3-2 loss on Thursday — time is running out.

With 17 games remaining, the Jackets need every win they can get if they want to stay in the playoff picture.

Losing Sunday to the Panthers may be the death knell for a Columbus squad barely hanging on.