Grading The Newest Blue Jackets: Part One

The Columbus Blue Jackets made some significant moves this year and in a recent post I graded Jarmo Kekalainen on how well he did with his acquisitions so far as the new GM. Now it is time to grade the newest players that have been recently acquired (not just under Jarmo Kekalainen) on how well they have done on the ice. This will be a two part article, make sure to check back for part two soon.

Lets start with the easiest one, the rest are in no particular order….

Jan 19, 2013; Nashville, TN, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets goalie

(72) blocks a shot against the Nashville Predators during the first period at Bridgestone Arena. The Blue Jackets beat the Predators 3-2 in a shoot out. Mandatory credit: Don McPeak-USA TODAY Sports

Sergei Bobrovsky: Vezina candidate. Enough said. {A}

Nick Foligno: Foligno was nowhere near his production from his last year with the Senators. In 2011-12 he had his break out season averaging half a point per game (15+32, 47 pts) at age 24, this season was a bit of let down for Foligno in the points department. With 6 goals, 13 assists, for 19 points, it was quite a bummer for his first season as a Blue Jacket. He wasn’t horrible out on the ice though, the production just wasn’t there, by the way he plus 6 for +/-.  I have high hopes for him though and think that he will step it up. {C+}

Adrian Aucoin: I am not sure that Aucoin was a good pick up by the Blue Jackets. He had the worst +/- out of all the defensemen. At age 39, I wouldn’t be surprised if Aucoin called it a career and retired. I am sure he is waiting to hear if CBJ is interested and or he might see how the unrestricted free agent market treats him before deciding anything. Aucoin only assisted on 4 goals, and was a minus 8. {D}

Mar 1, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets center

(42) skates with the puck against the Chicago Blackhawks during the first period at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports

Artem Anisimov: Anisimov was on par as far as production goes compared to most of his career. He posted 11 goals, and 7 assists, for 18 points (+/-, minus 6). Foligno and Anisimov are in the same boat, they didn’t play bad per say, but I think everyone wants more out of them. Anisimov is still looking for that break out season (It may have been in 2010-11), I think he has it in him, but the mystery is…when will it happen? {C+}

This is a great stopping point for part one. In part two we will be taking a look at Tim Erixon, Brandon Dubinsky, Marian Gaborik, and Blake Comeau. Check back soon!