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Hall, Walker, and Ehlers hit milestones, but Ottawa was the better team for most of the night to earn two huge points and prolong the Canes' crowning moment.

The Canes can finish the job and wrap up the Metropolitan Division on Sunday in Canada's capital, trying to earn their fourth win in as many games this week.

A three-point performance from Jarvis led a big night for the Canes' top line in a win that was one-sided everywhere except for the scoreboard on Saturday.

Thought to be done for the year after surgery, a surprise participant before Saturday's game could bring about good news as the regular season winds down.

With their invitation to the dance ensured, the Canes chase the next box on their checklist against an Islanders team fighting to maintain their playoff spot.

For the second time in as many games, the Canes dominated Columbus, scoring five goals once more to become the East's first official entrant into the playoffs.

Completing the home-and-home and the season series between the division foes, Staal is set to play in his 1400th game to begin their April slate.

Their record was a little spotty in 16 games, but there is no denying that the Canes looked very good when they found their game over the last 31 days.

The Canes are close to their eighth straight postseason berth, but that's not the only thing they're trying to lock down as the season reaches its final month.

After relinquishing a 2-0 lead, the Canes scored three times in the third period to pull away from the Blue Jackets and win the first leg of the home-and-home.