More roster cuts were the topic of talk yesterday for the Columbus Blue Jackets. Several players were assigned to Springfield, some will have to clear waivers today, others are through straight to the Falcons.
Sep 23, 2013; Columbus, OH, USA; Minnesota Wild defenseman Keith Ballard (2) chips the puck past Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Ryan Murray (27) during the first period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-USA TODAY Sports
The big news though was that Ryan Murray and Boone Jenner have made the roster. It was noted by Coach Richards that both will still have to earn their time on the ice though, and could still be sent down to Springfield if necessary.
So the wait is finally over, Murray and Jenner have made the cut (for now), and will be starting as Blue Jackets come the beginning of the regular season. I have gone back and forth all offseason about whether it is smart of Columbus to keep the rookies in the NHL or to send them down to the AHL.
After seeing both Murray and Jenner play in the preseason though, I think it is only fair that the Blue Jackets are giving them a shot to prove themselves when the real battle starts. I hope that it works in favor of the team and doesn’t end up as a setback to the rookies development.
Sep 26, 2013; Columbus, OH, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets center Boone Jenner (38) carries the puck against the Carolina Hurricanes at Nationwide Arena. The Hurricanes won the game 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports
Richards also mentioned that he will keep the Jenner – Dubinsky – Gaborik line together for the start of the season.
"I’d be foolish not to,” he said, “and that’s just based on their play."
[Todd Richards Via BlueJackets.NHL.com]
Smart, or bold? Both, why put an end to a good thing? I think this a great move on Richards part. That line delivered some severe damage during the preseason, especially during the 5-4 win against the Hurricanes.
The players who were sent to Springfield include Jack Skille (must clear waivers), Cody Goloubef (must clear waivers), Michael Chaput, Ryan Craig (must clear waivers), Jeremy Smith (must clear waivers), Mike McKenna (must clear waivers), Will Weber and Ilari Melart. As mentioned on the Blue Jackets website, Columbus will know today if those players have cleared waivers. [BlueJackets.NHL.com]
I am somewhat surprised about Jack Skille, but if there is no room, there is no room. He was brought in to be a depth guy and if he clears waivers then he will play in Springfield and possibly see time in Columbus if need be. Goloubef, Chaput, and Melart all played well during their time with the Jackets in the preseason, but not every player can stay up in the NHL. They too could be possible for options for Richards if the Blue Jackets are in a tight spot with injuries or if players begin to under perform.
The season opener is right around the corner for the Blue Jackets. October 4th marks the first game of the regular season, and as you know, it will be played at Nationwide Arena against the Calgary Flames. Get ready to #DefendNWA!