Columbus Blue Jackets: Bringing Back Derick Brassard?
By William Espy
The Columbus Blue Jackets drafted Derick Brassard sixth overall in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft and although he hasn’t lived quite up to expectations; he’s become a solid NHL player for a few different teams. Would it make sense for him to return where it all started at the NHL level?
Derick Brassard‘s departure from the Columbus Blue Jackets wasn’t a ceremonious one, however it could be time for him to make things right with Blue Jackets fans. He never truly lived up to his potential which at the time was projected to be a first or second line center at the NHL level; however in his time with the New York Rangers and Ottawa Senators he’s shown that he can be an effective player nonetheless.
More from Editorials
- The Mike Babcock Experiment in Columbus Has Failed
- Mike Babcock Resigns as CBJ Head Coach: Reaction
- “Spittin Chiclets” Podcast Spits on Blue Jackets, Babcock
- Statistical Predictions for the 2023-24 Columbus Blue Jackets
- The Five Greatest Single Seasons by a Columbus Blue Jacket Skater
His best season to date was in 2014-2015 when he put up a total of 60 points for the only time in his career to this point, however he did reach a career high in goals the following season with 27. While these are far from superstar level numbers, he’s reached a point in his career where he can consistently anchor a second or third line; and has produced decent numbers this season on an Ottawa Senators team that appears to be a sinking ship.
Sportsnet.ca announced the other day that the Ottawa Senators asked for every player’s no trade lists, including Brassard and team captain Erik Karlsson. Brassard’s salary cap hit of $5M through next year (according to Capfriendly.com) may seem a bit high, however there aren’t many better centers available on the trade market. While the Blue Jackets aren’t necessarily in need of a center with the emergence of Pierre-Luc Dubois, adding someone who can play down the middle likely wouldn’t be the worst idea.
Next: CBJ Get Star Wars Comparison
The addition of Derick Brassard would be an odd one, however it could pay off. Allowing Brassard to redeem himself in front of Blue Jackets fans would give him a bit of a chip on his shoulder, which certainly wouldn’t hurt.