A few days ago I mentioned in a fan post and comment that Springfield's other players would need to step up. Specifically I mentioned JAM and M Chaput. Little did I know..... If you haven't seen the results of Tue's game, let me enlighten you. Springfield won 7-5. JAM had a hat trick and Chaput had 2 goals and an assist.

I'm not suggesting that either can keep that up, but it bodes well for the depth of talent that is in the Blue Jackets pipeline. JAM is in his 2nd pro season, and has been a scoring leader for Springfield all year. I'm betting that he is more than a little disappointed that he is not in Columbus trying out. Chaput is in his rookie pro season, after being MVP of the Calder cup championships last season. As a first year pro, he has progressed as the season has progressed. Before the NHL shuffle he was bottom 6, with his scoring increasing lately, now he is top 6 and has a chance to prove himself, as he grows his pro wings.

Also a note. There has been quite a bit written about the necessity of the Blue Jackets getting off to a good start. I give you one thought. The Springfield call ups have come from a team that got off to a great start, had some ups and downs and continued on winning. That have had a number of comeback wins. They know how to win. Sure it was only AHL, well maybe Super AHL, but mentally I don' think that matters. The NHLers in the room mostly have not had that kind of recent success. Their presence on the team will be a mental asset.