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Mason, Blue Jackets seek fifth straight win

Feb 16, 2009 - 2:49 PM Dallas (27-21-7) at Columbus (28-23-5), 7:00 p.m. EST

COLUMBUS, Ohio (Ticker) -- Rookie goaltender Steve Mason is back, and so is the defensive prowess of the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Mason likely will start for the third straight game after coming off injured reserve as the Blue Jackets look to extend their winning streak against the Dallas Stars on Monday.

The 20-year-old Mason missed three contests last week while suffering from mononucleosis but seemed ready to play Friday, when he made 32 saves in a 3-2 win over the Detroit Red Wings.

A favorite to earn the Calder Trophy as the league's top rookie, Mason looked even better Saturday by making 26 saves and leading Columbus to a 5-1 triumph over the Carolina Hurricanes.

The win not only extended the Blue Jackets' streak but also was the first this season for them on the back end of back-to-back road games. They were 0-5-3 entering Saturday.

"We've put together a pretty good stretch of hockey," Mason said. "I think everybody realizes what's at stake with the games left this season. We have to take advantage of it. Every game is important. The standings, every day they change."

Columbus has surrendered five goals combined during its current run after allowing 15 in the previous three games.

Meanwhile, Dallas is coming off a 6-2 setback to the Chicago Blackhawks on Saturday.

The Stars have struggled offensively lately, registering four total goals in their last three contests (1-2-0).