Light The Lamp - Headlines

LTL-Nation,

I hope the summer months have found you in a restful, energized place.  I know the time off has allowed me to be less sour on the prospects of this team, and its activity (or lack thereof).  OK, maybe I needed to take more time away, but I digress.

I heard this news item on XM's NHL Home Ice - Around the Rinks in 90 Seconds - a recap of the news in the NHL, and I decided to research this, further.

Here is the article, from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette:

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/10244/1084197-100.stm

In short, the Penguins are going to give away 8,000 tickets to youths from the ages between 4-24 for their game against the Blue Jackets, on September 24th, at the Consol Energy Center, their brand new arena.  Bravo, Penguin ownership and management!  You guys "Get It".

This prompted me to share this with our own LTL, who has been on the forefront of urging the CBJ organization to search for more creative methods of drawing fans, to include new fans, for their pre-season games - and specifically, to reward those faithful season-ticket, PSL and partial-season ticket (Full Season Equivalents - FSEs - to use the organization's terminology) for their years of loyalty, most of which has been quite unrewarded.

Here's my insight (AKA two-cents worth):

Free duckets?  Are you kidding me?  Wow, what a novel concept!  This really is rocket science.  This is better than splitting the atom.

(Note:  This is all sarcasm, pure sarcasm)

As LTL so eloquently stated (via text - apologies to LTL, doing this verbatum):  The Pens are using some creativity, something the penny-pinching types in our organization fail to grasp.

Here are some suggestions, that, if I were afforded the luxury of my opinion - knowing full well that it would be met with the same "responsiveness" that 'game ops gate' and any suggestions to its off-ice folks (i.e. having a penalty and game clock on the TVs in the concession areas, less lame music, especially our rink entrance songs - see 8 God forsaken years of "Machine Head".  Hey, 1997 called, and that song is PLAY-ED.  In short, no response, or a BS response):

- Give out free duckets for pre-season games, to students and particularly to HS and Jr.-level hockey players.  If anything, build a relationship that may result in a lifelong fan.  As you know, once you attend your first hockey game, in person, you're hooked for life.  Goodwill here, people, goodwill.

- In addition to that, offer all pre-season game tickets for $5 dollars, to those non-season tickets holders  Think of this as similar to those $5 seats for the OSU spring football games.  This allows fans who normally can't afford to attend games an opportunity to be a part of the Horseshoe experience.  And, you never know, if the experience is positive, you may have found a new, lifelong fan, that you wouldn't have obtained, otherwise.

- Above all, rather than "award" the season-ticket holders with 4-6 pre-season games that are irrelevant - pre-season NHL games are similar to MLB pre-season games in that they utilize a split-squad concept - basically, an "A" squad and a "B" squad, with the primary intent to determine who might make the NHL roster from training camp - charge those faithful fans NOTHING - NADA - for these games.  Thus, take that overall charge to the FSEs - their slick way of computing a "discount"/game for these plans, and actually applying the discount towards the regular season games.  In can be done, it can be done.

This all comes down to a concept my very wise - all the stuff that got lost on myself (sigh) - father once told me:

"Some beats the living (you-know-what) out of nothing"

To translate (just in case):  Wouldn't it be great to see, rather than the tens and hundreds of friends and family attend the pre-season games, to see thousands - actually, tens of thousands - attend the pre-season games?  And - get this - actually drum up interest and create a new fanbase? 

THIS is "outside the box" thinking, THIS is creativity, THIS is the way to drum up a groundswell that this team so desparately needs.

C'mon, CBJ management, take this and make it happen!

Carry The Flag!  Happy 10th Anniversary!

-Mase1

A request from the CBJ vid-meister himself - Skraut:

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4

As a way of saying thanks to everyone I met at CannonFest, and all the kind words I've received over the years for my videos, I'd like to create a video which incorporates the work of my fellow Blue Jackets fans. Instead of putting together something comprised solely of video, I'd like to include photos taken by Blue Jackets fans.

What I'm looking for:

The theme for the video is “A Call to Arms” and I would be interested in seeing the photos that Jackets fans have taken which could fit the theme. Have pictures of the players during the game? Send them in. Photos of fans taken around Nationwide Arena on game day? Great! “Artsy” pictures of your jersey or the CBJ logo? Cool. Ever been to a Civil War Reenactment? Send me your pictures of the guys in blue. Any other thing that says Columbus Blue Jackets to you.

What I'm not looking for:

Pictures taken by somebody else. Please don't Google Image Search your favorite player and submit the first Getty or AP Image you find. The goal of this is to be something put together BY and FOR Blue Jackets Fans. I don't care if it's your favorite photo, or if you think it's cool. If you didn't take it with your own camera, please don't submit it.

How to Submit Your Photo:

Please email your photo to the temporary email address cbjCall2Arms@gmail.com Also please include how you would like your name to appear in the credits.

I have a few visions for how this video may look when it is done, but a lot will depend on what kind of pictures I get. This is pretty exciting for me as I'm going in a bit blind. I'll know what my options are when I see what has been submitted. I can't promise every photo will be used, but if I can work it in, I will.

Thanks everybody for your help with this, I hope to have something together for the season opener.

I absolutely love this idea so don't be shy CBJ fans and shoot your pics over to Skraut.  I'll certainly be sending in my share!

There is one in particular I hold especially close to my heart.

-LTL

Holy flashback batman! I've had that beauty hangin in my cube for a few years.

Of course the Jackets scrapped that logo 3 seasons ago (my how time flies) and as just about every Columbus media outlet reported yesterday, the ice with the current star/flag logo for the upcoming season was being prepared.

I (thankfully) flipped my CBJ calendar to the month of September this morning and it's none other than Rick Nash's mug on it for this month.  Despite my serious concerns about the Jackets ability to be a playoff team - I'm ready to drop the puck and watch this thing play out!

Speaking of Rick Nash -- saw a few comments on the Dispatch blog yesterday from some fans wondering why Rick Nash is not in town yet?  I then saw more comments saying why make a big deal out of nothing - he'll be here by the end of the week.

My take is the same as the folks asking why he isn't here yet. No, it isn't the end of the world but there are 20+ players in town already skating and preparing for the season.  After the disappointing year the Jackets and #61 had last season - our leader and captain should be one of the first players here setting an example.

Again - it's time to take the kids gloves off and expect more from our 7 million dollar man.

Any players you are looking forward towards seeing the most at camp?  For me these are the guys I'm most interested in seeing - mostly young prospects:

Filatov - they say he's bigger... they say he's more focused.. we'll see.

Calvert - expectations have grown for this kid... very interested in seeing how close he is with that extra year of development under his belt.

Moore - can he match last year's training camp?

Brassard - is the swagger and confidence in his game back to what it was two years ago?

Voracek - is he prepared to up his game another level or two this season?

Wesslau - want to see what this guy is all about between the pipes.

Johanssen - didn't get to make it out to development camp so interested in seeing how far away he is.

Goloubef - his first NHL camp since he was ineligible under NCAA rules.  Another guy I'm interesting is seeing what his game is all about.

Russell - very interested to see how he is used by the new coaching staff.  If Howson doesn't make a move Russell will be the key to activating more O from the D.

Was excited to read that huge changes are coming for the NHL Network from Puck Daddy.

I've just recently become a subscriber to the NFL Network and let me tell you - they are light years ahead of the NHL's version.

It was good to read that the NHL recruited some talent from the NFL Network which shouts from the clouds that they recognize the need to improve and are taking steps to get there.

Now don't get me wrong - I love me some NHL On The Fly but NFL Total Access it isn't.  Their original content and set productions also are way above the NHL's bar.

Maybe it's just me but I can't remember the last time I flipped on Sportscenter.  It's either the NHL Network or NFL Network for me.  It's hockey first and foremost with football a distant #2 for this fan.  If for some reason I want a total sports highlight show I'll pop on Fox Sports The Final Score.

For fans of other sports you have the MLB and NBA Networks as options and of course the BIG 10 Network as well as others are there for college coverage.

No longer do we as fans have to take was ESPN shoves down our throats.  These 24X7 networks allow us, the viewer, to decide on what sports coverage we want and when we want it.

These specialized networks are the present and the future. It's great to see the NHL taking steps to improve theirs.

Off the cuff here -- but the NFL hit a homerun with the "Hard Knocks" series on HBO. I'd love to see something similar done with NHL teams.  They may have to self produce it for the NHL Network as the NHL just doesn't thave that kind of national appeal but once again, they should try to follow the NFL's lead.

Real quite on the CBJ dman trade chatter. Read over on HF (via poster Pete Geogan) a proposal by an Edmonton blogger for a Souray-Commodore swap.  I've mentioned that deal a few times here in this space -- it would make sense for both squads.

Souray has the higher salary hit per year as he is owned 4.5 mil over the next two seasons however if you factor in the fact that Commodore is owed a total of 10.65 million over the next 3 and the Jackets actually come out a few bucks ahead on the deal overall.

Both players come with their share of issues.  Souray hasn't been able to stay healthy but brings a huge powerplay presence (and shot!!) that the Jackets could use.  Commodore was in about as good of shape as the dancing fat guy last year but when focused he can be an effective player as we saw two years ago.

Less we forget that Souray is an Oiler and we know how much Howson likes to wheel and deal with his former mates.

I said I'd pull the trigger then and still would today.

Got my 16 tickets for the home opener and am ready to rock.  Section 206 look out!

-LTL

Let's have a little fun today.

I want to know what your favorite hockey movie is?!!

Why?

Because it's boring as hell in the hockey world this week, it's hot as hell and.... well, hell is spelled H-E-DOUBLE HOCKEY STICKS!

When you jones for some hockey and have watched all the Jackets replays you can stomach, have read all the news/blogs/rumors available, played Skraut's vids until they burnt holes in your screens - what hockey flick do you then pop in the DVD player to continue your hockey fix?

I have listed the more popular ones below and have posted a poll to get your vote.  If you choose "other" please leave a comment and let us know.  I'll post my fave below!

SLAP SHOT

Considered by many to be the godfather of all hockey movies and a classic amongst all sports films.

YOUNGBLOOD

Features the late Patrick Swayze as Derek Sutton and Rob Lowe as Dean Youngblood.  These two were both considered the "young" studs at the time in the film biz. Not gonna win many awards for acting or screenplay but does have some good ole fashioned violence, bad language and nudity.  Mix this in with a hockey back story and viola - we have a movie I can appreciate!!

Love the 80s tag line!

THE MIGHTY DUCKS

This movie was so good that it spawned two sequels and Disney named a damn team after it!  C'mon admit it -- you've all seen it and part of you wants to clap when Charlie Conway coverts the 1 2 3 Triple Deke!  This movie is the ultimate hockey guilty pleasure!

A bit of MD trivia for you - did you know that star Heidi King was a graduate of Wright State University?  More (useless) trivia - Wright State is also yours truly Alma Mater.

MIRACLE

Disney did a great job at capturing what many say is the greatest single sporting event in the history of U.S. sports with this movie.  Who doesn't like Kurt Russell as the late Herb Brooks?  Whose eyes don't tear up when TEAM USA defeats the Russians and goes on to capture the gold medal?  Who else doesn't recite the line "Do You Believe In Miracles? - YES!!!" when the final few seconds tick off the clock?

MYSTERY ALASKA

The movie has it's moments (I particularly like the "Skank" character).  It's good but not great.  It's packed full of stars like Russell Crowe and Burt Reynolds.  It's not quite the classic it hoped to become but was/is enjoyable and may top some folks hockey faves charts.

The one thing I always take away from the movie (and don't ask me why) but Russell Crowe ain't no gladiator on skates.  Not even special effects or camera tricks could hide his skills (or lack thereof) on blades.

HAPPY GILMORE

I went back/forth as to whether to include this one on this list.  Bottom line, this movie is about an aspiring hockey player on a golf course - that is enough for me to include it.  Besides Sandler wears a Boston B's sweater through the majority of the movie and the scene where he beats the shit out of Bob Barker is all hockey baby!

THE ROCKET:

THE LEGEND OF ROCKET RICHARD

Many of you probably haven't seen this movie as it was primarily released in Canadian cinema.  I expect next to no votes for it as a fave BUT this is a movie worth watching for all hockey nuts.  It's very well done and does a great job of showcasing Richard's legend and legacy in Canada.  Think Babe Ruth in the states.

This movie also features up and coming actors Sean Avery, Vincent Lecavalier, Stephan Quintal and Mike Ricci among others!

DO YOU BELIEVE IN MIRACLES?

THE STORY OF THE 1980 U.S.

HOCKEY TEAM

Every time I finish watching the move Miracle I immediately pop this sucker in the DVD player.  It's a documentary of the 1980 team that originally aired on HBO.  If you've never seen this be prepared to be inspired and have a box of Kleenexes close by.  It truly is an amazing story and there is nothing like hearing about it from the original cast!

THE CUTTING EDGE

I figured I'd have to toss the "chick flick" lovers a bone with this one.  As with Happy Gilmore I struggled a bit as to whether or not to include this one but alas, here we are.  As with that movie this one focuses on a hockey player (in this case D.B. Sweeney who plays a former one due to injury) who takes up another sport - in this case pairs ice skating.  Sweeney (who even has a hockey last name) falls in love with a rich spoiled girl, they go through the ups/downs, do the Pamchenko, win Olympic gold and live happily every after.

I'll admit, if I'm channel surfing and this one pops up -- I'll leave it on.

Toe pick!

Those are the big ones but there are some others out there that may catch your fancy like:

"The Mystery Of The Million Dollar Hockey Puck" (I can't make this stuff up folks)
"Pucked" (haven't seen it but the name alone tells me I should!),
"MVP - Most Valuable Primate" (I'll pass)

and....

Making It Rain Featuring Mike Commodore (okay - that one I did make up)

For those keeping an eye out for future hockey movies watch out for "Hit Somebody".  This one is directed by big time hockey fan Kevin Smith (Clerks, Mallrats, Chasing Amy, etc) which according to IMBD is

"The story of a hockey player with a talent for fighting. Based on the song of the same name by Warren Zevon, which was written by Mitch Albom."

Again, please leave comments, especially if you've selected "other".

-LTL

My vote:  Miracle (and then the HBO documentary)

Some interesting stats for you as we wait for the month of August to finally end and for NHL training camps to open in September (yes!!):

Did you know that Ray Whitney, not Rick Nash, holds the Jackets franchise record in average points produced per game with .93?  Just wouldn't give him that extra year would you MacLean!?!

Out of the 148 players that have worn a Jackets jersey in their 9 year history - only 35 have a plus/minus of 0 or better.

Jody Shelley leads the team with 1025 penalty minutes.  Jared Boll is the next closest with 555.

David Vyborny still leads the Jackets in games played with 543.  That mark will be passed next season by Rick Nash who currently sits with 517 games.

No surprise but Rick Nash leads the franchise in total points scored with 422.  To put that in perspective with say an original 6 team like Boston -- their leading scorer is Ray Bourque with 1506 points. Sidney Crosby already has 506 points and Alex Ovechkin has 529.

The highest single season point record is Rick Nash with 79 points.  It's hard to believe but in 9 full seasons the Jackets have never had an 80 point scorer.

Ray Whitney still holds the single season team assist record with 53.

Steve Mason has played 119 games for the Jackets.  That ranks 3rd on the all time games played for Jackets goalies behind Marc Denis' 266 and Pascal Leclaire's 125.

Speaking of Marc Denis - he also leads in all time losses for a Jackets netminder with 146.  Leclaire next with 55 and Tugnutt (for President!) had 52.

Steve Mason has already claimed the most shutouts in Jackets history with 15.  Denis had 12 and Leclaire with 10.

Rusty Klesla leads all Jackets in being out for goals against with 477.  Nash next with 475.  No surprise there considering they are the longest tenured Jackets.

Here is another non-surprise -- Jan Hejda is the all time leader in plus/minus with a +26.  Vermette is second with a +7.

The Jackets have had 5 captains in their history -- can you name them?    Odeline, Whitney, Richardson, Foote and Nash.

Here's a tough one -- which team in the NHL have the Jackets had the most success against?  It is actually two teams -- the New York Islanders (7-1-1-3) and Buffalo Sabres (7-2-1-0) -- both equal a .750 winning percentage.

Which team have they had the least amount of success against?  I was thinkin the Predators (16-32-1-8) or Wings (15-33-1-8) -- however it's actually the Colorado Avalanche with an overall record of 8-26-1-1 -- that is ugly!

Which number has been worn the most by Jackets?  The answer is #24 -- it has been worn by 8 players.  Check out this motley crew -- Mike Gaul (who?), Hannes Hyvonen, Todd Rohloff, Cam Severson, Francois Beauchemin, Kris Beech, Aaron Rome and Derek MacKenzie.

There are quite a few numbers that have only been worn by one player in Jackets history - 9 (Vyborny), 13 (Zherdev), 45 (Shelley), 49 (Fritsche), 48 (Methot), 52 (Foote), 55 (Tollefsen), 57 (Heinz), 61 (Nash), 78 (York), 91 (Fedorov), 93 (Voracek), 97 (Klesla).

Adam Foote leads the franchise in average time on ice with 24:26 minutes per game.  Spacek second with 24:10 followed by Tyutin with 23:31.

All stats pulled from hockey-reference.com -- great site!!

-LTL

Today, CBJ development coach, former CBJ #28 and all around good guy, Tyler Wright will compete in the Subaru Ironman Canada Triathlon; culminating a three month fundraising effort for the Blue Jackets Hats For Heroes program.

You can follow Tyler's progress today by clicking on the logo below - he is bib #667

And it still isn't too late to donate to help push Tyler over the $40,000 goal!

Click the banner below to do so!

Tyler, the CBJ Foundation and the Hats For Heroes kids (especially my daughter, Coryn) thank you for your support!!

Today, CBJ development coach, former CBJ #28 and all around good guy, Tyler Wright will compete in the Subaru Ironman Canada Triathlon; culminating a three month fundraising effort for the Blue Jackets Hats For Heroes program.

You can follow Tyler's progress today by clicking on the logo below - he is bib #667

And it still isn't too late to donate to help push Tyler over the $40,000 goal!

Click the banner below to do so!

Tyler, the CBJ Foundation and the Hats For Heroes kids (especially my daughter, Coryn) thank you for your support!!

The news broke yesterday that the Jackets will be televised on Versus 3 times next season.  Not great but certainly better than the 1 time they were on last season.

After seeing their schedule I had to scratch my head wondering why the October 9th game against San Jose in Sweden is not televised on Versus?  My next question was will Fox Sports pick it up?

I'm not sure about the "why" for Versus but according to Fox Sports press release they will not be picking up the second Sweden game.

As Portzline said via his twitter, looks like the Center Ice San Jose feed will be our only option -- that is if the San Jose's broadcast partner chooses to televise it.

That's good for puck geeks like me who subscribe to CI but a fail for the average fan out there who won't have a local option to watch the game.

The hunt may be on for a Swedish stream of this one.  Either that or hit up your friendly R Bar!

Speaking of broadcasting games...  it certainly appears the Jackets will not be streaming the preseason games.  I don't get it.  If you aren't going to televise them then at least stream em!  I know they video tape these games for the coaches to review and such - just pipe into that.

Perhaps I'm making this too simple but how complicated can it be?

You know who got screwed on any national broadcast games?  The Nashville Predators.  They have just 1 game on Versus.

They are a big rival of ours and I like to talk shit about em -- but it's a shame a guy like Shea Weber isn't promoted more in this league. He's a flat out stud.

Someone/someway this team always finds a way to ice a competive product which I envy - you'd think they'd get more pub.

I'll tell ya one thing about Nashville -- no NHL road trip I've taken can rival those I've made down to music city.  Such a good time before/during/after the game.

HIGHLY recommended.

Raffi Torres signed a 1 year 1 million dollar deal with the Canucks yesterday.  Some may be wondering why the Jackets didn't sign him to that deal?

For one the last thing this team needs is another bottom 6 winger.  Another is Howson already made his play for Ethan Moreau.  Finally from everything I've read Torres wanted to sign with a Canadian team -- Toronto was his first choice but that obviously didn't work out.

That said if I could have a 28 year old Raffi Torres for a year at 1 million over a 34 year old Ethan Moreau for 1.8 give me Raffi Raffi sweeter than taffi.

The biggest factor in the Vancouver Torres signing is that they will no longer be looking for a bottom 6 forward in return for dman Kevin Bieksa.  They are 3 plus million over the cap and certainly will look for cap relief in the form picks and prospects in return.

The Jackets have that return available but the question remains - would ownership be willing to shell out another 3+ mil that comes with taking on a Kevin Bieksa?

Quite frankly I wouldn't blame them if they didn't.  As much as I'd love them to spend to the cap they have already spent 50+ million which should be plenty to ice a competitive team.  The spotlight now shouldn't be on ownership financial commitment but on how Howson is spending that money.

Remember he's got 6.9 million tied up in Pahlsson/Moreau/Clark.  Mike Commodore makes the most of any dman with 3.8 million yet as you will see below I have him on our 3rd pairing.

Called to get my group seats for opening night the other day.  If you want a sign of how much of a struggle it's going to be to put butts in the seats this year here is an example -- I can get group of 10 or more seats just 6 rows up in the upper bowl.

To top it off instead of selling me on the Jackets they are trying to sell me that this game is "against the Blackhawks".

Will we ever get to the point where we can just sell people on the fact that they are seeing a quality winning squad in the home team?

This team needs to win in the worst way.

Remember with a new coaching staff will certainly bring with it different views on O lines and D pairings.  Here is my guess at the Jackets lineup should the season start tomorrow:

Nash Vermette Voracek
Filatov Brassard Huselius
Umberger Pahlsson Moreau
Clark Murray Dorsett
Extra: Boll

Tyutin Hejda
Klesla Russell
Commodore Stralman
Extra: Methot

Mason
Garon

May be hard to shake the thought but Brassard, Voracek and Russell are no longer "young" players in this league.  They may be young in age but both Brassard and Russell will be 4 year pros and Voracek will be on his 3rd year.  No more "protecting" these players in the lineup.

Can't see playing Filatov any place but the top 6 to be effective.  He's a skill player that needs skill.  I like the idea of both Brassard and more importantly Huseilus creating space for Filatov and getting him the puck in shooting position.  The problem is that line is softer than a roll of Charmin.

The fact that Umberger is so versatile hurts and helps him.  There will always be a place in the lineup for him but because he's so versatile he is the logical choice to bump down to the 3rd line.  Regardless of where he may start the season he'll see plenty of time in the top 6 and PP duty as the season plays out.

I think the top four D as it stands today will be Tyutin/Klesla/Hejda/Russell -- how those pairs shake out may differ from what I have listed.

I can also easily see Methot taking the place of Commodore if he doesn't get his act together this offseason and come to camp in shape.

I don't like to see Boll a scratch but I can't see Clark or Dorsett sitting and neither are centers.

As always - injuries can and will shake things up in a hurry.  The good news is that I do believe there is some NHL quality depth in this organization that can fill those spots - at least in the bottom of the lineup - when the inevitable injury does occur.

-LTL

As the roster currently stands here are the top 10 things I believe the Jackets must do to make the playoffs:

10 - Home/Road/Central
The Jackets weren't bad at home going 20-12-9 but were horrendous on the road notching just 12 wins for an overall road record of 12-23-6.  They must get more point production on the road if they want to be a playoff team.  They must find a way to get points on those tough road swings through the west coast and north western Canada.  A 7-9-8 record against the Central ain't gonna cut it either - Vader must die, Squids must be squashed, Blues silenced and the 'hawks scalped!

9 - Howson
This is a key year for Scott Howson.  It's year 4 in the big chair and thus far he's got a underwhelming 107-102-37 overall record with one playoff appearance and two lottery picks to show for it.  This is his team now as the only remaining starters from when he took over the reigns are Rusty Klesla and Rick Nash.  There is no one left to blame if this team falters yet again.  It's no secret that I am not a fan of what he's done (or better yet, has not done) this offseason thus far.  Howson's belief that the improvement for this team must come from within must come to fruition for this team to make the playoffs.

8 - Conditioning
There is so much smoke around conditioning on the squad last year that I absolutely believe there was a 5 alarm fire.  No doubt Mike Commodore came to camp out of shape and then you have names like Voracek and Mason tossed in the conditioning rumor mill hopper.  Combine that with Noel's 3 out of 10 comment and the fact they canned their Strength and Conditioning coach and something was rotten in conditioningville.  The good news is that the young players like Voracek and Mason seemed to have gotten the message as they have worked hard on their conditioning in Columbus all summer long.  The verdict is still out on the vets like Commodore.  Conditioning cannot be a question mark this season.

7 - Filatov
I struggled where to put Filatov in this list.  The great news is that he's in Columbus a full 6 weeks ahead of camp.  That is a good first step towards rebuilding bridges with this team.  This team needs Filatov to have an impact to get to the playoffs - they need his goal scoring as quite frankly they just don't have a sniper like him.  What they need the most is a committed, focused and motivated Filatov that doesn't report to practice late, paint the town the night before games and doesn't bolt at the first sign of adversity.  What they absolutely don't need is for him to be a distraction.

6 - Xmen
The Jackets need some surprise seasons from at least two guys.  Whether that be a Kris Russell stepping up and putting up 40+ points on D or a guy like Brassard reaching 60 points there has to be some "unforecasted" points that pile up.  Maybe rookies like a John Moore or Matt Calvert get a shot due to injuries and never look back.  Maybe vets like an Umberger, Tyutin and/or Vermette top their previous career highs.  Maybe Nash hits 90 points.  Maybe Clark and Moreau can contribute something substantial on the scoresheet.  Maybe its a community effort.  Maybe it's Steve Mason scoring 10 empty net goals.  Personally I don't care whoever or whatever it is but the bottom line is this team needs more point production as they were ranked just 20th overall in total goals scored last season.  That isn't good enough.

5 - OT/Shootout
The Jackets went 5-15 in OT/shootouts last season - that is 15 points left on the board that were given to other squads.  Can't happen again if they have any hope at reaching the post season.

4 - Coaching
I think the coaching staff changes have been a bit over-rated this offseason (then again what else has there been to talk about?) but if this coaching staff can't get buy in from the vets and younger players this team is sunk.  Talent for talent the Jackets just aren't on par with the paper contenders in this league but if this staff can get them to play as a team and out work their opponents on a nightly basis then they may be on to something.

3 - Voracek
This one is short and sweet - if Voracek leads this team in scoring this team makes the playoffs.  I think this kid is a huge factor in determining this season's fate.

2 - Goatlending/Defense
Quite frankly I don't care who it is between the pipes but the bottom line is if the Jackets want to make the playoffs they must get above average goaltending and the defense can't have leaks the size of the gulf oil spill.  The keys are three fold 1. ride the guy whose hot regardless of the name on the back of his jersey 2. need goaltenders to steal some games, especially on the road and 3. the goaltending is only as good as the defense in front of them.

1 - Rick Nash
I've said it before and I'll say it again -- Rick Nash is getting paid to be the man now he has to play like the man.  67 points will not cut it.  That C on his crest is not for show -- he has got to lead this team both off and on the ice.  He's got to make big plays at keys moments of the game and season.  If they are in a shootout during a 3 game losing streak on the tail end of a back 2 back on the West Coast -- he's got to covert that attempt and salvage something from that trip.  The kid gloves have got to come off with 61 and the expectations from the fans, management and most importantly himself must rise.

-LTL

(this one was for you Terry!)

Caught this pic over on NHL.com and wanted to share here.  It's a picture of the rink that was used for the R&D camp that was organized by Brenan Shanahan:

How about that one faceoff dot configuration?

I think this camp is a great sign that the NHL is not sitting on their hands and reacting but instead are being proactive and looking for ways to improve the game.

Personally I like the idea of going to a 3 on 3 OT after 4 on 4 before going to a shootout.  Perhaps if the Jackets, who were dead last in the league with only 2 shootout wins last season, had any kind of success in the shootout my stance would change!

One area off the ice I think the NHL must look at are the camera angles.  I'd love to see a game televised from North to South (like they do in video games) as opposed to East to West.

The Jackets will be once again be participating in the Traverse City Prospect Tournament this preseason.  The tourney kicks off on September 11th with the Jackets facing the Rangers in the first game at 9:30 a.m.

Full schedule can be found here.

One of these years I will get up there for one of these deals!

-LTL

I hope you didn't bother to bring a towel to dry yourself off from the splash Howson and the Jackets made yesterday with the signing of 32 year old center Ben Guite.

That splash wouldn't make it out of a fishbowl.

Forecaster on Guite:

ASSETS: Works very hard every shift. Is a solid penalty-killer and face-off man. Has the size and defensive acumen to shut down offensive forwards.
FLAWS: Has never been able to translate AHL production into regular point production at the highest level. Lacks consistency in the offensive zone.
CAREER POTENTIAL: Reserve center.

I'm sure Guite will be fine in his role but here's my problem with this signing -- why are we concentrating on AHL tweeners when the Jackets still have holes big enough in their NHL lineup to drive a dump truck through?

Shouldn't we be concentrating on our NHL lineup?  I know I'd feel a lot better about these kinds of touch up moves if the priorities in the NHL lineup were already addressed.

It is August and we have less than 30 days til camp opens.  Yes there is still time to add impact players to the NHL lineup but the pickings are slim and time is running out.

Let's recap what Howson has accomplished this offseason thus far:

1. Hired a new coaching staff.  One with zero games of head coaching experience at the NHL level.

2. Drafted Ryan Johanssen with the #4 overall pick. Won't wear a Jackets sweater this season. Probably won't make a significant NHL impact until year 3.

3. Claimed 34 year old 3rd line winger Ethan Moreau off of waivers from Edmonton who was the worst team in the league last season.

4. Resigned Anton Stralman, Jared Boll, Mike Blunden, Grant Clitsome and Derek MacKenzie among others.

5. Signed 32 year old depth center Ben Guite.  He played in 6 games for Nashville last season (a team that needless to say was not loaded offensively) and registered 0 points.  He spent the majority of his season with their AHL affiliate the Milwaukee Admirals

Now step away from your CBJ bubble and ask yourself an honest question - how does any of this really make the Jackets a better team for next season?

Those moves summed up tell us one thing -- that Howson believes last season was the fluke.  That this team will bounce back. That all the improvement will come from within and THAT will be enough to make this team a playoff contender.

Ask yourself another question -- what if two years ago was the fluke and last year was the norm?

I really hope this coaching staff can spark this team.. I really hope Mase can bounce back and the young players can take a step.  I hope our franchise player can do more than show up for a few stretches and score more than 67 points. I hope Ben Guite can contribute something.. anything!

I want to believe.. I really REALLY do but all I can do is hope Howson's offseason plan works.  Hope his belief in this team comes to fruition.  His job could depend on it.

Until Howson gets serious about filling the real holes on his NHL team instead of these pointless depth signings I can't get serious about this squad's playoff chances.

I'll be rooting for them every step of the way of course but man it's hard for me to really get excited about our chances and that sucks!

-LTL

So what will it be this season?  Death by asteroid?  Alien invasion? Mayan end of days happens a year early?  Darth Vader blows up rebel base?  Predator kills Ahhh-nold?  Forest Gump dies from gun shot to rump? Indiana Jones smashed by large bolder? Elliot Ness slain by Al Capone?

Whatever it may be if you've started to read the early season predictions the CBJ might as well pile into a coffin and bury themselves b/c the good guys have no chance!

The first to predict the Jackets to be put on ice before the season begins was the Hockey News:

Why: The rookie sensation from 2008-09, Steve Mason slid off considerably in 2009-10 and the Blue Jackets franchise went from playoff team to lottery hopeful. The Jackets are still in desperate need of a legitimate first line center to set up Rick Nash and his goal scoring prowess and they also need someone to move the puck from the blueline. There are a lot of good young pieces in place, but in the extremely difficult Western Conference there is no room for error.

Next up is the early season power rankings from CNNSI.com that was sent in via Dave - the Jackets rank 29th out of 30 teams:

When the big offseason acquisition is Oilers castoff Ethan Moreau, it's a good bet that Nationwide Arena will have plenty of available dates come early April. Still, there's reason for hope in Columbus, starting with a revamped coaching staff that includes Scott Arniel, Bob Boughner and Bard Berry. It's a youth-oriented group that seems well suited to get the most out of the team's young talent. And if Steve Mason rebounds, and Nikita Filatov grows up, the Jackets could surprise.

One thing I can tell you with certainty CBJ fans is get used to these predictions - outside of the CBJ faithful ain't nobody picking the Jackets to make the playoffs this season.

You know -- maybe that is a good thing because nobody picked them to make the playoffs the year they did so either.

I'll have my season prediction up closer to the season but I'll be honest with you now -- I don't have them in the playoffs.  While I don't think they will be as bad last year when everything went wrong -- with the current roster it would take everything going right to get in.

If I'm Arniel I use all these "predictions" as bulletin board material to remind my squad what the hockey world thinks of our chances.

The good news is that in the "new NHL" (can I still say that in season 5 since the lockout?) there have been major shakeups in the standings every year.  This time last year the Hockey News and just about every other publication had the Coyotes and Avalanche out of the playoffs.  Another thing I can tell you is there will be more shakeups this season.

Can the CBJ be one of those that shake, rattle and roll?

That is why they play the games.

-LTL

In case you haven't heard yet, Jackets GM Scott Howson missed out on Leafs' puck moving dman Tomas Kaberle.

The catch?

Well so did the 28 other GMs in the league.

I'm not gonna fault Howson on this one because it is crystal clear Burke over played his hand on Kaberle and his expectations for a return were completely unrealistic.  Not one GM was willing to pay his asking price.

Kaberle is a guy we could have used but you just cannot give up a young top 6 forward or high draft pick for a guy who will probably leave in a year.   If reports are true, Burke did not even allow teams to discuss a contract extension with him.

I thought for sure Kaberle was a goner.  Maybe not to the CBJ but to some NHL team.

I personally don't get why Burke didn't move him to the highest bidder by the time the clock struck midnight - especially with the way he's had a "for sale" sign tatooed to him this summer.  If you wanted him then why put your player through that?  Now Kaberle's no trade clause has kicked back in and he has the ultimate say as to when and where he'll move.  One would think that will tie Burke's hands on what he can get, if anything, as the season unfolds.

Enough about him though and let's get back to the CBJ.  The bright side is unlike what was reported when Phaneuf was on the block, Howson did pick up the phone on Kaberle and made a pitch.

More importantly is if what Tom Reed of the Dispatch reports is true - the Jackets were not offering one of their roster players which means ownership was prepared to take on Kaberle's  4.75 million dollar salary hit.

While I'd love to believe that and would stand up in my cube and give ownership a standing ovation if that came to fruition -- not sure I'm buying that completely.

1. Kaberle's addition would give them 8 dmen on the blueline.  Something would have to give there.  Perhaps Howson had another deal lined up to dump on to another team or perhaps he would send one back to the Leafs?

2. I give ownership credit for spending over 50 mil already on the current roster - would they really greenlight an additional 4.25 mil with season ticket sales being where they are?

3. Since a deal didn't go down what benefit would there be towards alienating one of your roster players but saying publicly they were on the block?  The smart play is to say no roster players were involved.

I'm skeptical but would have been thrilled if that is how this went down.

So now what?

Well the prevailing thought is that Howson will continue to pursue help for the blueline.

Here are a few names that have churned the loudest of late in the rumor mill:

KEVIN BIEKSA

Breakdown: The obvious alternative is to target Kevin Bieksa of the Canucks.  Bieksa doesn't bring the offensive acumen that Kaberle would bring but he did put up 43 points two seasons ago, has a big shot from the point and is a gritty physical presence (averaged 5 fights the last 4 seasons) on the blueline.  The drawbacks are he's been injury prone of late and can take bad penalties.  Bieksa has 1 year left on his deal at 3.5 before becoming a UFA.

Cost: Vancouver is said to be interested in adding some affordable depth and grit to their bottom six forward positions.  They want to shed salary as, according to cap-geek.com, they are 2.5mil+ over the cap.  They would make them interested in draft picks/prospects.

Trade scenarios: The Jackets won't give up a lot for him due to only having 1 year left on his deal but I definitely think there is interest.

Can't see them parting with Boll or Dorsett and it's very unlikely Vancouver would be interested in Moreau/Clark/Pahlsson/Murray.  Mike Blunden could be another name that pops up in conversation.

Assuming ownership is willing to pick up his price tag -- Jackets send Tom Sestito and a 3rd round pick to Vancouver for Kevin Bieksa.

SHELDON SOURAY

Breakdown: The Oil are still trying to unload Sheldon Souray which doesn't take a epidemiologist (scientist who studies the spread of disease - who knew?!!) to figure out.  Souray has an absolute rocket from the point that would certainly help our PP (he's scored 23+ goals in 2 of the past 4 years).  He can also be a physical and mean SOB and has some leadership qualities (oh so important in the Howson era).  However he can be a liability on defense and those damn injuries (average only 48 games the past 3 seasons).  He is 34 and is signed for two more years at a whopping 5.5 mil per.

Cost: Edmonton would be thrilled to just move this guy's salary off their books which again doesn't take a geneticis (scientist who studies how traits are inherited..... but you knew that already right?) to figure out since they put him on waivers.

Trade scenarios: Let's be honest - this guy has worn an Edmonton Oilers sweater so I'd be foolish to completely rule him out.  Howson has proven time (Tarnstrom), time (Torres) and time (Moreau) again that he isn't afraid to go back to what he's familiar with.   That said the only way I can see a deal for Souray would be something like:

Mike Commodore for Sheldon Souray

or

Jackets claim Sheldon Souray on re-entry waivers (ie half the price).

Both unlikely.

ROBYN REGEHR

Breakdown: Calgary is another team over the cap by 2+ mil and is looking to shed salary.  Regehr is a 30 year old rugged shutdown dman who can log a lot of minutes.  Not much offense in his game as he's averaged just 17.7 points the past 4 seasons.  Health hasn't been an issue however as he's only missed 12 games over those 4 seasons.  He is signed for the next 3 seasons at 4 mil per - ouch!

Cost: Since Calgary would be looking to cut salary one would think they would want to take as less back as possible.  So low cost NHLers and draft picks/prospects would be the asking price.

Trade scenarios: I don't think the Jackets have much interest here.  The one thing the Jackets have on their defense is a lot of "Regehr" type dmen.  Hejda, Commodore, Methot and Klesla all fit this mold.  What they need are puck moving dmen who can put up points and make a difference on the PP.

Certainly the Jackets would move a Commodore for him but Calgary says no.  If they wanted a solid defending dman they would just keep Regehr.

Don't see a fit.

X-MAN

They key is to watch the teams that are close to or over the cap.  I've noted both Vancouver and Calgary above but teams like Chicago, Boston, New York Rangers, Philly, Detroit (puke) and Ottawa are all over or close to the cap.  Then we have New Jersey and if this Kovalchuk situation ever gets worked out they will be close as well.

The most likely scenario will be that Howson lands a guy that is on nobodies radar - think a Stralman type move from last season.   Unfortunately that will lead to yet another offseason where the major holes on this roster (top dman and center) continue to go unfilled.  The hope will be yet again that someone on the current roster can step up and fill them.

Is this finally the year a Russell or Brassard can do it?  That is a roll of the dice I wouldn't risk if I were in Howson's or this franchise's situation but I'm not Howson or this franchise.

Howson's motto is low risk high reward.  Mine is hope for the best but prepare for the worst.

Here's to hoping.

-LTL

Skraut has done it again!  Enjoy!!

After this I can only think of one thing....... let's drop the motherf'n puck!

-LTL

Guess what happened while you were sleeping last night?

Nothing :(

Been about as much activity out there as a dead guy in a cemetery.

That said still lots of chatter especially about Toronto dman Tomas Kaberle.

I won't rehash his situation as most of you out there have heard this Kaberle story beaten to death and then beaten again.

The one thing we all have to be aware of is when Kaberle's No Trade Clause kicks back in.  By all accounts that deadline midnight on Sunday August the 15th.

Will Kaberle still be wearing a Maple Leaf or will it be another team's colors?  Better yet is there a chance that Kaberle will be wearing CBJ colors?

My answer is yes and I feel stronger today about those possibilities than I did a few days ago.

Why?

Because my fellow blogger ePlagge pointed out on Twitter yesterday, Brian Burke via an interview on the Fan590 said he may be willing to part with Kaberle for "futures".  By futures he means draft picks and prospects.  He said his first priority is to trade Kaberle for immediate help - preferably a winger, but they may consider a "futures" deal.

That my friends puts the Jackets on the playing field as the one thing they can certainly sacrifice is some "future" for now.  It's been 9 years of waiting for the future with just one short lived playoff appearance to show for it.

I'm not saying to sacrifice the world but if we have to give up a either a top pick or prospect to get Kaberle then sign me up.  If I'm Howson I sweeten the offer with a contingency that kicks in if Kaberle resigns.

My guess is Burke isn't interested in any top 6 players the Jackets may be willing to part with (Huselius?) and Howson isn't interested in parting with any of the players Burke may be interested in (Nash, Voracek, Vermette, Brass, Umberger) so any deal for Kaberle with the Jackets would have to be a "futures" deal.

So what to offer?

I can see a top draft pick or a top prospect but not both.  The draft pick is risky because let's not kid ourselves, we are the Columbus Blue Jackets -- the same organization who has picked in the top 8 in 9 of their 10 drafts.  This pick could easily be a top 5 pick and if you're gonna move it, is has to be for more than a 1 year fix.

I don't think Howson would part his top 4 prospects of Filatov, Johanssen, Moore or Calvert straight up with Kaberle signed to only a 1 year deal.

So what then?

Howson will have to get creative.

He could trade Kaberle for 2nd round pick, Jan Hejda and Cam Atkinson -- the contingency being that the 2nd round pick becomes a 1st if one of two things happen:

1. The Jackets make the playoffs.

2. Kaberle signs an extension.

One would make that 1st rounder a later round pick and I'd gladly trade that 1st for a playoff season next year.  Success may also help persuade Kaberle to resign with them.

The second would put the Jackets in the drivers seat.  If they could convince Kaberle to resign then that is certainly worth a first round pick.  If he doesn't then at least they keep that pick.

Atkinson is no throw away either.  His 30 goals led the entire NCAA D1 hockey league last season in just his second season.  That is very impressive.

I like Hejda, but I don't think he's in the cards to be resigned this season and his 2 million is movable.  With Kaberle coming back the Jackets blueline get's very crowded and something has to give.  If not Hejda perhaps a Stralman or Methot?  Then again, would Toronto want another NHL dman back?

Another option would be to make it a bigger deal -- perhaps a Filatov (and his salary) is traded but in return a Kaberle+ comes back the Jackets way.

Would any of this be enough for Burke to trade Kaberle?  That is anyone's guess.

The fact that he is now considering "futures" makes it apparent that he is not getting the offers he has hoped and it's either that or keep him.

Regardless of whether or not he becomes a Blue Jacket I cannot see any scenario where Burke keeps him.  Not after he's been put on public display for as long as he has.  Burke might as well change the name tag on the back of his jersey from 'Kaberle' to 'For Sale'.

This is Burke's window and he and every other GM knows it.  Once that NTC kicks back in all the leverage shifts back to Kaberle and you can bet he will use it.

I'll end this post by saying what I've been saying all summer -- Kaberle would be a perfect fit for our defense.  We desperately need what he brings.  His addition could salvage what has been an extremely disappointing offseason.

All we can do now is wait.

UPDATE: I just read this twitter from TSN's Daren Dreger:

One team presented an interesting offer. A player and a pick IF Kaberle signs an ext. If Kaberle becomes a ufa, the Leafs send a pick back

He then goes on to say that offer was declined.

I would be shocked and disappointed if that offer didn't come from the CBJ.

-LTL

I just received this email and was asked if I would share here which of course I'll do anything I can to help:

Last Wednesday Angelo Serra’s, (a player on the Garage Bar and previously the Herd), house was struck by lightning and destroyed everything.  Luckily Angelo and his family were not at home, and no one was hurt.

Angelo, Julie, Giovanni, and Dominic are moving into an unfurnished rental house until their house can be re-built.  A group associated with Hilliard Soccer is gathering items for the family.  If you have any furniture or items below you can deliver them directly to the Hilliard Soccer Complex on Scioto Darby the rest of this week and Mon thru Wed next week from 6:00 to 8:00 pm (see Carol). 

Since they lost everything they need everything.

Furniture
Towels & Washcloths
Bed Linens - Queen & Twin
Tableware – dishes, glassware, flatware
Cookware/Bakeware
Gift Cards (Target?Kroger/Giant Eagle/Kohls)

Appreciate your support of a fellow hockey guy in their time of need.

Go Team,
Shad

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4

I do not know Angelo personally but I'm told he's one of those guys that you just can't help but like and the same goes for his family.  He is also an avid supporter of the Ohio State hockey team and and avid backer of Hockey Beats Down Cancer.

If you cannot make it over to the Hilliard Soccer Complex checks or gift cards can be mailed to:

Shad Phillips
4333 Reed Rd
Columbus, OH 43220

Shad is the Garage Bar Team captain which I as mentioned earlier is Angelo's CAHL team.

It's time to rally Columbus and support one of our own adult hockey players!!  If you have the means I'm sure Angelo and his family would appreciate even the smallest of donations.

To show LTL puts his $$ where his mouth is Hits for Hockey will be making a $25 donation to help out Angelo Serra and his family in their time of need.

Every little bit counts.

Thanks to Tom Wright for bringing this to my attention.

-LTL

I've banged on the Jackets organization pretty hard this summer including how absolutely disgusted I am with the game operations performance.

Perhaps I'm hard headed and hold a grudge but I'm still pissed off about the whole Blackhawks goal song gate that occurred in the 2nd half of last season.  That should never happen and someone's ass should have been grass for that incident.  As I've stated before just imagine the outcry if the Michigan Wolverine's fight song was played in Ohio Stadium?

It's difficult enough to cheer on a perennial loser game in and game out but do we really need our own game ops staff to encourage the opposition?

Well the good news to report is that the Jackets appear to have listened to their fans and have opened up the lines of communication.  I received emails from both Kevin and Jeremy (thanks guys!) pointing out that the Jackets have sent all their season ticket holders a link to a survey specifically covering game operations.

The questions hit all the main points such as which music would you like to have played to replays to should their be more or less of the "dancing fat guy".   They ask about the movie videos, chipotle chutes, the kiss cam and everything in-between.  It really is a thorough survey that I encourage every season ticket holder out there to fill out!

This is your chance to make a difference and help make Nationwide a much tougher place to play for the opposition.

Although I have yet to renew you bet your butt I filled it out.  I stressed replays (especially the timing of them), not catering to the away team and staying far away from the goofy jumbotron acts.

My biggest point is its time to focus on why everyone is there and that is the game of hockey.  Use game ops to keep the home crowd engaged and active.  If there is bad call replay it and encourage the crowd to boo the hell out of the ref(s).  If there is home team momentum don't play a stupid movie clip -- play a great rock riff and help keep the energy high... so on and so forth.

Really this is not Japanese Geometry here.

When I was in Philly for a Flyers game last year one of their fans put it best as I admired how their game ops worked the game and crowd....

"If you're worried about people offending kids then take them across the street to a Phantoms (Flyers AHL affiliate) game... this is the NHL".

Those folks take their hockey serious at this level and the absolute last thing they or their games ops do is worry about offending the opposition or their fans.  The message -- this is our house, if you don't like it then get the f*** out!

It's time to stop treating the Jackets like a side show in town and take pride in our team and arena.  We need to build our own traditions that we as Jackets fans and Jackets players can be proud of.  If we think like an irrelevant market and fanbase then that is exactly what we will be.

We can't forget the players in this - you better believe they feed off the crowd energy and any morale or momentum boost that game ops can help provide.

I get the feeling that to many of the leaders in this organization this is just a job and paycheck - kind of like the daily grind most of us go through every day.

They don't get pissed off when they see the building half full of the opposing teams fans.

They don't care when an Octopi lands on home ice.

They aren't upset when the Jackets get dragged through the mud yet again when a coach with no NHL experience turns them down.

They aren't worried as much about the score or intricacies of the game as they are about the bottom line and # of butts in the seats regardless of the team they cheer for.

I wonder how much a Mike Priest or Larry Hoepner really thinks about the Jackets?  Is it just a job to them?  Do they turn it off when the punch out for the day?  Have they ever laced up some skates and fired a few biscuits on net?  Have they ever watched a pee-wee/high school/adult hockey league game?

In sports organizations this cannot be.  Yes it's big business but the passion, obsession and fire has to be there from the top down first and foremost to make it a successful one.

They need to live and breath it every day.  They must love what they do and genuily feel the thrill of victory and agony of defeat along with each and every coach, player and fan.

This drives accountability, continuous improvement and expectations.  If the owners and front office have it then you better believe that will have a trickle down effect.

The paycheck, while certainly important (we've all got to feed our families), should be second fiddle.

I got on a roll there (what else is new right?) but in all sincerity I would like to thank the Jackets for taking a small step in this direction by sending out a comprehensive survey with the goal of improving game operations and thus the game experience for the home fans.

This has been one of the highlightes of the offseason for me as a fan as the lines of communication on a very releveant topic have been opened.

We want a winning team first and foremost but there is room for improvement everywhere in this organization which certainly includes a complete revamp of the game presentation.

We have an amazing facility here in Columbus Ohio - one of the best in the world - let's take advantage of it!!

FIRE AWAY - is this survey a sign to you that management is listening to its fans and that game ops will be changed accordingly?

-LTL

Pick your all time favorite Jackets goal:

Manny Malhotra Bobby Orr Style

Rick Nash Between The Legs

Nikolai Zherdev Coast To Coast

Rick Nash The Goal

-LTL

FIRE AWAY in the poll question or leave a comment if your favorite is not listed.

I've read from CBJ fans who speculate on where a guy like Aaron Portzline get's his facts or "sources".  Take this statement from his chat via the Dispatch the other day:

There is absolutely no agenda. I like Filatov, personally. He's always been good to me and The Dispatch. I only pass along what we learn through reporting, that he's a name that has been mentioned in trade rumors. We know this as a fact..Doesn't mean we want him to be traded; doesn't mean we don't. Our job is to report the facts, which we've done. We've been very fair to the kid, and he's been fair to us. I'd ask you for examples of us devaluing him.

Maybe I'm playing captain obvious here but lets fill in the blanks from where these "facts" come from.

First let's eliminate some options.

The Dispatch are paid journalists who put food on their tables by reporting from legit sources.  Legit sources do not mean the Zamboni drivers, equipment managers or ice girls.  Sure some of those folks may get talk to some players and dig up some dirt but Portzline and co certainly won't take that to print.

I also don't see Portzline goin casino royale and planting a bug under Howson's desk.

Ask yourself this question - who stands to gain the most from feeding the Dispatch info?

Pretty easy to connect the dots here --- agents and CBJ management.

Agents, particularly if they are in a tough negotiation with a CBJ player, can use the Dispatch to get their side of the story out concerning their player's situation.  Think about Rick Nash's "comments" (i.e. coaching from agent) that he fired out a day into his negotiation last summer for example.  There are many agents however and tough negotiations are few and far between.  Their situations are mostly one-offs and I don't see a lot of consistent interaction between agents and the Dispatch.

Jackets management on the other hand have a lot to gain and lose by feeding the Dispatch info.  The Dispatch is really the only traditional media in town that covers the Jackets on a daily basis.  A big part of that may be the fact that they are part owners but regardless of the motivation -- they certainly don't want to lose that coverage.  In return for that coverage the Dispatch will want to be the first to "break" CBJ stories.  Signings, trades, hires/fires, etc.  That is only going to come from one place and that is Scott Howson and to a lesser extent his assistant in John MacFarland.

There are exceptions, especially on the business side, where most of the story will break from President Mike Priest but when it comes to hockey operations the "source" has to be Scott Howson.

Keep this in mind as well for those that think the Dispatch is not critical enough on the Jackets - would you be if Scott Howson and the Jackets were essentially putting food on your table?  Portzline certainly isn't going to bite the hand the feeds him and I don't blame him.  He walks the line a bit more in the blog but he knows where the line is.  The opinion columns need to come from Mike Arace and Bob Hunter -- unfortunately those two mostly lob softballs the Jackets way instead of bringin the heat.

So the next time you read the Dispatch has learned from "sources" just fill in that blank with Scott Howson because 90% of the time I believe that is where the information is coming from.

Speaking of Hunter, here is an interesting nugget from Bob Hunter that former Jackets assistant coach Gary Agnew turned down the AHL job in Springfield.  Really can't blame him considering his reasoning:

Agnew mulled the Springfield opportunity over the weekend before deciding that after 10 years with the Blue Jackets that it was time to move on.

I mentioned on Twitter in a response to a tweet that speculated the Brian Burke was interested in, among others, Antoine Vermette in a return for Tomas Kaberle.

I responded that if that was the return he was looking for then "good night and good luck".

I think some took that as I would do that trade.

Looking at that again I can see how I could be lost in translation here.

The message I was trying to get across was "good night" (as in hangs up the phone) and "good luck" (as in good luck finding a return like that).

As much as I think we can use Kaberle there is no way Howson would move his only proven center for a one year rental.  You fill one hole but create an even bigger one elsewhere in your lineup for years to come.

Nikita Filatov is in Columbus Ohio - a full 6 weeks before training camp.

There is no other way to look at this other than a positive.  He'll get his opportunity to rebuild some bridges with some of the other young players in town and most importantly it shows a renewed commitment towards playing in the NHL this season.

There have been some rumblings that Filatov was late to practice a few times last year and had some late nights on the town.  I'm not one to criticize young players for hitting the town (hey, I've certainly been there/done that) but as pro athletes these guys have to pick their spots and stay out of the spotlight while doin it.

It may not be fair but it's part of the package.

I do think the chances of Filatov getting dealt at this stage are next to nothing.  I also think, as Portlzine alluded to with this "facts", that Filatov was indeed on the block but b/c A. the return wasn't there and/or B. his renewed commitment towards the NHL that we'll see him in a CBJ jersey this season.

Let's hope things go a little better for Filatov the second time around (well technically his 3rd time) as the Jackets can desperately use his scoring.  In fact they really don't have anyone in the lineup with his goal scoring skill set (i.e. sniper).

I'm watching a replay of this year's draft -- still can't believe Fowler and Gormley slipped to #12 and #13.  I shudder to think about Fowler's numbers in a few years and what could have been.

I have warmed up to Johansen some but still think we could have done more with this pick.

The more highlights I watch of Johansen the more he reminds me of Jordan Staal.  I'd certainly be okay with that.  Speaking of Staal I've always wondered what kind of numbers he'd put up if not playing behind Crosby and Malkin.

Still think Howson makes some kind of a move for a dman.

I starting to expect more of a Stralman type move versus bringing in a legit top pairing guy - or even top 4 guy.

I'm tellin you now though, we've never seen a guy who could move the puck in a CBJ sweater on the blueline like a Kaberle could.  Does it piss you off watching Lidstrom and Rafalski consistently chop us up and spit us out on Wings powerplays with their puck movement?  Well Kaberle could help us do the same to them.

Burke is gonna have to lower his price before that can happen.

Anyone else taking the day off October 8th for the Jackets season opener in Sweden?  Let's just say the party plans at the LTL household are full speed ahead.

I know our favorite hockey home away from home, the R Bar, will also be running some opening day specials.

For all those thinking about attending CannonFest - I got a sneak peek at Skraut's new video and let me say it is by far his best work yet.   If you don't get goosebumps watching this thing then check your hockey pulse!

It's worth making the trip just to see it.  The Jackets should hire this guy stat!

Have a great weekend CBJ fans!

-LTL

Wanna get away and get your hockey fix?

Well then CannonFest is for you!

You've probably seen these promos on some other Blue Jackets blogs already but if not, then here you go!

Some good CBJ fans, including the owner of this Buffalo Wild Wings, would like to invite you to this fine establishment on August 15th to talk a little CBJ in August.  The Jacket Backers will be there with raffles and door prizes and a new CBJ video will be premeiring by the best in the business - Skraut!

The best part (at least to me) is that if you bring the following coupon you can get 24oz Molsons and LaBatts for just 3 bucks!

Hope to see you there!

-LTL