It has been an interesting pre-season for the Columbus Blue Jackets, so much so, that their record, which stands at 1-2-1, may be the least intriguing and relevant news.
A big story of the preseason thus far has the play of some of the young guys. Maksim Mayorov tallied two goals in the opening game against Pittsburgh. Alexander Picard also added a goal.
According to sources, John Moore has looked outstanding. As a skater, he looks far beyond his years. He does not look like an eighteen year old on the ice, and it appears he going to be around for a while, at least until the end of camp.
Forward Michael Blunden, who has looked good in camp, has impressed coaches, and could compete for the fourth line center position.
Grant Clitsome is another youngster that has impressed. Clitsome finished a nice goal on a beautiful pass from Derick Brassard in Monday night’s game and has played well with the puck.
The team has also seen strong goaltending from recently signed goaltender Mathieu Garon. He has played so well in fact, that as backup goaltender, Garon should push Mason to be better.
Not only have the young guys been able to produce, but the veterans have played strong as well. In Monday night’s game against Minnesota, the first line tallied a total of seven points.
The line played with great chemistry and connected on an impressive tic-tac-toe play from Nash to Huselius to Brassard. Vermette has also played strong, adding a shorthanded goal to a 5-1 win over the Wild Monday night.
Unfortunately, the team has also experienced its fair share of injuries. In a 2-0 loss to Minnesota, Blue Jackets forward Jason Chimera was carried off the ice on a stretcher after being violently checked into the boards by Wild center Eric Belanger with just over six minutes remaining in the second period.
Left Winger Fredrick Modin has also sustained an injury that is expected to keep him out four to six weeks. Raffi Torres is out with back spasms.
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