Why Jack Johnson Should Be The Captain Of The Blue Jackets

Hockey is in the air. With the new season just two months away, NHL fans are gearing up for a full season, and Blue Jackets fans particularly have much to be excited about.

Jun 15, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets goalie

poses with the Vezina Trophy during the first intermission of game two of the 2013 Stanley Cup Final between the Chicago Blackhawks and the Boston Bruins at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports

Between Sergei Bobrovsky‘s campaign to retain the Vezina honors he earned in 2013, and the promise of not just getting close to a playoff run, but a legitimate, late spring berth into the round of 16, the air in Nationwide Arena is electric.

But in the midst of all this excitement, there are still many questions. Obviously the biggest question is that of what the new division will be like and how success will be found against unfamiliar opponents. Yet, a question often dismissed as that of  whether or not the “C” will be sewn on a sweater next season.

I, for one, hope they do decide to name a captain. Who do I think it should be? Jack Johnson, and here’s why.

Think about the circumstances under which Johnson came to Columbus. His LA Kings were on the verge of a playoff run when suddenly he finds he’s been traded to a team that hasn’t had a chance at the playoffs in 3 years. Each player would have a different reaction to this. So what was Johnson’s? Excitement.

April 15 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Colorado Avalanche left wing

(92) defends on Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman

(7) during the third period of the game at the Pepsi Center. The Blue Jackets defeated the Avalanche 4-3 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

That’s right, excitement. Johnson welcomed the new task of being part of the solution in struggling Columbus, and his mindset hasn’t changed since. He earned his “A” during the Rick Nash era, and now that that is done, it is time for Johnson to step into his role as the soul of the team.

Johnson is a guy that really gives 110% every shift, every night. A six-year NHL veteran, Johnson has enough youth to get the job done quickly and efficiently, as well as enough wisdom to know what to do in specific situations.

Apr 27, 2013; Columbus, OH, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman

(7) celebrates a goal during the third period against the Nashville Predators at Nationwide Arena. Columbus defeated Nashville 3-1. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-USA TODAY Sports

Now, I’ve heard a lot of discussion on this topic end in “Well, the team does really well without a captain.” You’re absolutely right. They do play really well without a captain. But imagine what they could do with a true leader at the helm. No more “almost had its” or “so closes”, but genuine success.

Besides, a team without a captain is just unfinished in my opinion. It’s like a banana split with no banana. Ice cream is good, but to make it a split you need the banana. That little something extra that brings success. The Blue Jackets have untapped potential, that I can say with the utmost confidence. But who’s to tap it, if not a captain?

My point is, the Jackets could benefit greatly from a captain, and if they are to select one, I believe Jack Johnson deserves the look, but I’m interested to hear the opinions you all have. Leave a comment, tweet me, whatever you have to do.

Oh, and who will raise the cup first if a captain isn’t named? Just a thought.