More photos » Jay LaPrete - AP

about 1 month ago: Columbus Blue Jackets' R.J. Umberger, center, celebrates his goal against the Dallas Stars with teammates Rick Nash, left, and Antoine Vermette during the third period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, Feb. 4, 2010, in Columbus, Ohio. The Blue Jackets defeated the Stars 2-1. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)

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In this edition of Shrapnel: Hitch's comments, a new tradition in the locker room, Kovalchuk trade, Sid/Ovie round 2, and more! 

Lets do this!

Puck-rakers:

Looks like someone is a little bitter about not being around anymore. I for one am glad he's not around. Good day. I said good day!

Hitch talks for the first time since he was let go. He talks about his rise and fall, Noel, and coaching again.

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BlueJackets XTRA:

Even though his days as the Blue Jackets head coach are done, Hitch is hinting that a return to the organization is very possible.

Claude Noel's promotion has already brought a sigh of relief, and a new tradition to the locker room.

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Four-Check:

Its funny, I feel like sometimes when we discuss things here at the Cannon, I'll see the same topic on other sources later on. Take for instance PhillyPhan's post and talking about who should be wearing the "C" and "A's". Here's what they think at the Four-Check.

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Yahoo! Sports:

Ilya Kovalchuk is officially on the move. The Devils have won the Ilya Sweepstakes, sending Johnny Oduya and two forwards, including the now controversial Patrice Cormier.

Time to gear up for round 2 of Sid the Kid and Alex the Great.

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NHL.com:

Looking to buy some hockey gear? Read this article so you know what to look for.

Torres is still the topic of conversation when it comes to the Jackets trade deadline.

Alex Ovechkin already has reached the 500 point plateau. It came on a very nifty goal at the expense of Henrik Lundqvist

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Quote of the day:

"I thought Steve was remarkable. I thought he was really good. His handoffs to the defensemen were really good and he made a couple of huge saves. I thought he was very resilient."

- Claude Noel, on the first recipient of the "Hardhat" award, Steve Mason.

Fight of the night:

Canucks LW Tanner Glass v. Senators D Matt Carkner

Honorable Mention:

Ducks RW George Parros' moustache v. Kings LW Raitis Ivanans. Video.