More photos » Jay LaPrete - AP

5 days ago: Columbus Blue Jackets' Andrew Murray, center, takes a shot against Edmonton Oilers' Devan Dubnyk, left, as Aaron Johnson, top right, and Ryan Whitney try to block the puck during the second period of an NHL hockey game Monday, March 15, 2010, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)

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In this edition of Shrapnel: All-Star game, selling the CBJ, Calvert, tonight's lineups, Jake's hair, Boston's revenge, and more!

Hello, Friday. We missed you.

Puck-rakers:

The Blue Jackets will attempt to host the All-Star game in 2013. Imagine the benefits of this happening. Tons of exposure for Columbus, the Jackets, all the revenue, having at least one Jacket in the game (Nash) and at least three more (looking at you Mase, Brass, Jake).

The Jackets are for sale? Thats what this article in the NY Times seems to think. With the arena lease and trying to make up for millions of dollars lost each year, its possible but nothing concrete has come from it.

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BlueJackets XTRA:

As Mike reported on recently, Matt Calvert has signed a deal with the team. This kid is genuinely stoked about playing for Columbus next year. Great news, in my mind. He continues to praise the franchise for believing in him and his talents. Welcome to Columbus, Mr. Calvert!

Lineups for tonight:

CBJ

Minnesota

Could the new relationship between the Jackets and the Springfield Falcons be temporary? The Lake Erie Monsters are Colorado's minor league affiliate for the time being, but both sides have an opt out clause after next season. This could allow Columbus to add Lake Erie as their newest affiliate by 2011. 

It would further the connection between Cleveland and Columbus in the sense that the Indians have the Clippers as their minor league team, and they have a business relationship with the Jackets. The Lake Erie Monsters are owned by Dan Gilbert (the majority owner of the Cavs). I think this would be tremendous for Columbus in the long run. Make it happen!

Earlier in the year, Jake's long flowing hair was the talk of the locker room. After the Detroit massacre (that started the downfall of the season) former head coach Ken Hitchcock asked Jake to cut his hair. Shortly after, Jake fell into a huge slump. Nowadays, the hair is back and what do you know, he's playing some great hockey. Long story short, Jake's long hair = a winning team.

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Yahoo! Sports:

Thursday's Three Stars. I'd just like to make notice of Thomas Vokoun's little mishap. At least he's not the only one to make a mental mistake like that.

The forecast for the next 6 years: booing Ryan Kesler in a Vancouver uniform. He signed a 6-year $30 million dollar deal to stay up north. Good extension for the Canucks.

Do league officials play favorites when it comes to disciplining players? We all know that Alex Ovechkin was suspended for 2 games for boarding Brian Campbell. This time, Anaheim's James Wisniewski has been suspended for 8 games after running Campbell's teammate Brent Seabrook into the glass. Do you guys think there is a double standard for serious hits?

Paul Kariya is the latest player to join the 400-goal club. The benchmark goal helped lead the Blues past the Rangers on Thursday night.

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NHL.com:

Please note as of March 19, 2010, San Jose is no longer the top dog in the West. Its almost certain that they won't win the President's Trophy again either, with Washington way ahead in the East.

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Quote of the Day:

"I wanted to get it done as soon as possible. They showed they believed in me by drafting me, and I'll always remember that. I love the city. I love the guys in the room. They were really cool to me in training camp (last fall). I'm excited to be a part of the organization for a long, long time."

- Matt Calvert on getting his entry-level deal signed.

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Fight of the Night:

Pittsburg LW Matt Cooke v. Boston RW Shawn Thornton. My first reaction even before I watched the fight, was that it was retalliation for the hit Cooke put on Boston's Marc Savard.

FOTN Honorable Mention:

Pittsburg LW Michael Rupp v. Boston D Zdeno Chara. Video. Oh, Michael Rupp, how foolish you are.

Jay LaPrete - AP

5 days ago: Columbus Blue Jackets' Mike Commodore, left, knocks the puck away from the net as teammate Marc Methot, second from left, Edmonton Oilers' Mike Comrie, second from right, and Dustin Penner wait for a rebound during the first period of an NHL hockey game Monday, March 15, 2010, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)

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In this edition of Shrapnel: Hejda's injury, Vermette's career year, Mayorov's return, a big name receives a suspension, power rankings, and more!

Puck-rakers:

Jan Hejda is expected to miss the rest of the season, after suffering a right knee injury. Early thoughts are a sprain which is similar to what happened to his left knee earlier in the year. Honestly, I'm ok with this. I certainly wish him a speedy recovery but with the season basically over, I want to get a look at some other guys. Get well soon, Jan!

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BlueJackets XTRA:

Antoine Vermette is having yet another career year. With his 3 points last night he's set a new career high with 55. He also has a new high in assists (33) and is close to surpassing his goals record (24, has 22 currently). I'll call it right now, next season Vermette will crush whatever number he racks up by season's end.

A very brief but great feel-good story. Even though he's gone, Ryan Salmons is still having an impact on people.

Random notes. More on Hejda, Klesla, Maks, Boller and a few others. I think Boller is extremely lucky not to be out for a period of time. I've watched the fight over and over and I'm so glad he was able to move around just fine. Here's hoping Rusty can FINALLY put the injury bug behind him. If he can play a full season imagine what he can do given the start he had this year.

Ovechkin receives suspension, Modano out indefinitely. Ovie gets 2 games for boarding, which is warranted.  Does anyone think the league should throw out the rules for suspensions and start over?

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Yahoo! Sports:

Ryan Miller seems to be the early favorite to win the Vezina this year. Who would your vote go to? Certainly, his Olympic play was tremendous but that shouldn't be a factor. My vote would go to Miller because his numbers are just phenomenal.

Puck Daddy's Three Stars. One Jacket earns top honors, and another gets an honorable mention. Both well deserved, as they played probably their best games all season long.

Two Ducks find themselves day-to-day suffering from various injuries. Selanne is looking to score his 600th career goal this year.

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NHL.com:

On the front page, check out the "Saves of the week" video on the "Plays of the week" tab, and look under "Plays of the night" and you will see a couple familiar faces. Even though the team is under performing, I like that the players are still getting the recognition for their abilities.

State of the Division. Detroit is making their push to the playoffs. To think, this time last year, they all but locked up a top seed. Even if they make it in, seeing them actually have to fight for once is refreshing.

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BlueJackets.com:

Maksim Mayorov is headed back to Syracuse. The good news: This means Rick Nash should be good to go by the next game. The bad news: We might not see Maks again until next year. I think we have something special in him but we need to give him the exposure to get better. You know, like what we did with Brule, just hope for a better result.

Who doesn't like free stuff? If you get a chance, head down to the arena Friday night when the Jackets take on Minnesota and get a free CBJ Pint glass.

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Power Rankings:

ESPN - 28th

Columbus Dispatch - 27th

TSN - 29th

CBS Sports - 29th

Fox Sports - 28th

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Quote of the Day:

"I won't lie. It's a tough situation to be in. I remember last season coming to Columbus (from Ottawa at the trade deadline). That was so much fun...I didn't have as many points at the end of the season, but it was a much more rewarding season."

- Antoine Vermette

Fight of the Night:

Oilers D Theo Peckham v. Blue Jackets RW Jared Boll

Honorable Mention:

Bruins RW Shawn Thornton v. Devils LW Jean-Luc Letourneau-Leblond. Video.

More photos » Jay LaPrete - AP

7 days ago: Columbus Blue Jackets' Steve Mason, left, makes a save against St. Louis Blues' David Backes during the first period of an NHL hockey game Saturday, March 13, 2010, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)

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In this edition of Shrapnel: Edmonton, Gilbert Brule, Noel, injuries, the longest game ever, and more!

Lets do this...

Puck-rakers:

If things weren't bad enough, now our captain is sick, and only 6 players took to the ice for practice. Sounds like the team is just exhausted. Hell, I'm exhausted for them. It is looking pretty bad for our guys tonight even if they ARE playing the worst team in the league.

Wonder how the future will look? With the young group of talent we have waiting in the wings, hopefully the future = 2010-11.

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BlueJackets XTRA:

The end of the season draws near, and the Interim tag will be removed from Claude Noel one way or another. If Noel doesn't become head coach, he will likely leave to coach elsewhere. Now whether that be in the NHL or minors or juniors is unknown, but I think he'll make a hell of a coach somewhere.

Lineups for tonight:

CBJ

Edmonton

What happened to Gilbert Brule? He went from being a highly-touted prospect drafted by a bad team, to being a slightly average player on another bad team. If he were in the right system, he could be a very effective player.

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Four-check:

What to watch for tonight: Edmonton G Jeff Deslauriers. He recently had a blow-up that makes this guy look like a saint.

Gameday: Edmonton. What happens when an unstoppable force meet and immovable object? Whatever it is, it won't be seen in tonight's game. Its going to be brutal.

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Yahoo! Sports:

In case you missed it, which would have been awfully hard, an NCAA game set the all time record for the longest game ever played. Maybe ties aren't so bad afterall.....

Ovechkin? They don't need no stinking Ovechkin. After being ejected for boarding a Blackhawk (thank you) the Caps rallied to win in OT. Seriously though, I don't want anyone to get hurt (yes, this means you too Crosby). To further prevent serious injury, should the league institute suspensions for game misconduct penalties?

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NHL.com:

Rumors around the league are saying that the boarding penalty given to Ovechkin could lead to Brian Campbell missing the rest of the season.

Its about time to start looking at the entry draft. An early look at the player rankings have an awful lot of offensive talent at the top.

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Quote of the day:

"Young guys who stay on a roster and don't get played . . . that's not a good situation. Anyway, we are happy to have Gilbert."

- Oilers coach Pat Quinn on having Gilbert Brule.

Fight of the weekend:

Ottawa RW Chris Neal v. Vancouver C Rick Rypien

Honorable Mention:

Philadelphia C Mike Richards. New York Rangers C Brandon Dubinsky. Video. 

St. Louis LW D.J. King v. Minnesota LW Derek Boogaard. Video.

More photos » Gus Ruelas - AP

11 days ago: Columbus Blue Jackets goalie Mathieu Garon blocks a shot during the third period of an NHL hockey game against the Columbus Anaheim Ducks, Tuesday, March 9, 2010, in Anaheim, Calif. The Blue Jackets won 5-2. (AP Photo/Gus Ruelas)

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In this edition of Shrapnel: Lineups, Chelios, Mac's injury, Nash's medal, Oregon, a former Jacket fights, and more!

Is it Friday yet? 

BlueJackets XTRA:

Lineups for tonight. As always, there will probably be some tweak to them before game time.

CBJ

Atlanta

Much like in the past, the third period has NOT been a friend to the Jackets. Here's a breakdown of just how bad its been. Only if hockey were 2 periods long we'd do so much better. Supposedly conditioning isn't a factor but how many more times will that be the excuse?

Chris Chelios was called up from the AHL and will likely join the Thrashers in their game tonight with Columbus. Just how old is Chelios? This puts it into perspective. I'm not kidding, my jaw 'bout hit the floor.

A recent call-up, Derek MacKenzie, saw his return to the NHL end suddenly. He suffered a sprained MCL and is likely out 3-4 weeks. This is unfortunate because I think Mac can be a great contributor to the team this late in the season. Who do you think the next call-up will be?

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Puck-rakers:

A random collection of notes.

Transcript from yesterday's chat.

Here's an update from the arena. Nasher out, Juice in. Maksim Mayorov playing with Antoine Vermette and Kristian Huselius. I don't know why, but I really like this decision. I've always wanted to see what he can do with the right line mates.

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Four-check:

A look at Atlanta. There are also some other little notes in there. What do you think of the Boll situation? Does management let him walk or bring him back? At this point, I hate to say it, but he should be let go. His roster spot could be really valuable next year so its time to say goodbye to Boller.

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Yahoo! Sports:

As Mike pointed out with the last game recap, Oregon's candidate for the Senate - Marc Delphine - has been using a reverse version of the Jackets logo for his campaign. The first thought that went through my head was "Hey, nice logo, you make that yourself?...cause you didn't." Fans quickly let the team know and they passed the issue along to the NHL. I don't think Delphine meant for it to happen, but hey, at least he's trying to raise awareness for our team.

From the land of the embarassing. I feel really bad for this kid. He seemed to take it really well but he'll hear about it for the rest of his life. I mean, c'mon. Its hockey, in Minnesota.

This article takes a look at Anthem etiquette. Seems like every team has their own thing, but Chicago's is the worst. I understand its been done for years and years, but its just disrespectful to drown out the song with your constant yelling and screaming.

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BlueJackets.com:

Heading to the game Saturday? Get there when the doors open because from 6-7 Rick Nash's gold medal and game-worn jersey will be on display. While you're there, also bid on the St. Patrick's Day jerseys. Remember, all the money goes to the Blue Jackets foundation, so its worth it!

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Quote of the Day:

"You can't give confidence. You can show it, but you can't give it. The players have to find it - work for it - themselves."

- Claude Noel, speaking on the constant breakdowns in third periods.

Fight of the Night:

Rangers LW Jody Shelley v. Devils LW Jean-Luc Letourneau-Leblond

More photos » Gus Ruelas - AP

So this is success. I like this.

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In this edition of Shrapnel: We've got power rankings, today's chat, hits to the head, the playoffs, the view from the other side, and more!

Ready...Set...GO

BlueJackets XTRA:

Time for your weekly visit to the psychiatrist...I mean, online Blue Jackets chat. Is there even a difference anymore?

These things are true: The season is pretty much done, we'll secure a great first round pick in the draft, and Rick Nash promises the team won't give up the rest of the way. Its important for us, the fans, not to give up as well. Brighter days are ahead, we just have to keep supporting.

Discussions are still ongoing regarding hits to the head. The Cooke hit on Savard, that Howson cited can be seen here. Accident? Purposely done? You make the call. Personally, bias aside, I feel that Cooke could've done more to avoid hitting Savard. It should warrant a suspension, as should all hits to the head.

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Puck-rakers:

If you're driving home tonight between 6 and 7 pm, tune into the Coach's Show. Guests include Claude Noel, and Toronto Maple Leafs and Team USA head coach Ron Wilson.

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Anaheim Calling:

What they're saying. Good to know we're not the only ones suffering this season.

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Power Rankings:

Columbus Dispatch - 27th

TSN - 27th

CBS Sports - 29th

Fox Sports - 27th

ESPN - 27th

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Yahoo! Sports:

Last night, the Flames took down the Wings in Detroit. Why is this important? It pushed Calgary into the 8th place spot in the conference, and knocked Detroit down to 9th. They're getting dangerously close to missing the playoffs for the first time since...(scroll down to postseason appearance streaks)

Another hit to the head during last night's Oilers/Senators game. Pathetic.

Marty Turco still believe the Stars can make the playoffs. Right. Interesting link in this article. A writer for the Globe and Mail has calculated the records each team will need to reach over their remaining games to make the playoffs. Its a bit flawed with the guesswork thats involved, but still a pretty neat way of looking into the future.

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NHL.com:

In a 36 save effort, Mathieu Garon earns third star honors.

The Bleacher Report looks at 5 possible playoff matchups. Some of these could be really good. Who ya got in the Finals? I'll take San Jose (finally) against Washington for 1000, Alex.

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Quote of the Day:

"The guys who are here long-term are the guys who have to stand up right now. Those guys have to be committed to the city and committed to the team. Guys like myself and others have to stand up and say it's unacceptable for games like (Monday's) to happen."

- Rick Nash on the rest of the season. Glad to see he's finally being vocal with his teammates.

Fight of the Night: 

Columbus RW Derek Dorsett v. Anaheim LW Matt Beleskey. Its a damn good thing Scrappy Doo stepped in. I cringed when I saw Beleskey jawwing with Brass.

Honorable Mention:

Columbus D Fedor Tyutin v. Anaheim C Ryan Getzlaf. Video. I bring this fight up because the notes say Umby got a double minor for roughing. I didn't see it, does anyone know what he did?

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: The latest on Manny, Free agency, lineups, Brass' injury, Crosby on Letterman, headshots, knee-to-knee hits, and more!

Lets do this.

BlueJackets XTRA:

This interview with former Jackets C Manny Malhotra gets his thoughts on where he is now, and his former team. After reading it, I'm very disappointed. So, you're telling me you took a one-year, $700,000 dollar deal over a three-year deal, making twice as much? Have fun in the playoffs.

The ONLY good thing I see from the Torres trade was the availability of more money to spend in free agency. But the question is, do we use it on a number one center, or the right defenseman? I think we need to keep Russ, Klesla, Commie (no choice), Hejda, and Stralman. Its not that I dislike Tyutin, or Methot, but someone has to go.

Howson's take on the value of a shootout. I don't think awarding 1 1/2 points for a shootout winner is going to solve anything. However, I do think something needs to be done about overtimes/shootouts/ties.

Here are the lineups we should expect to see tonight:

CBJ

Los Angeles - To think, we STILL could've drafted Anze Kopitar...

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Puck-rakers:

Wonder what happened to Derick Brassard? Only to a Blue Jacket...

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Yahoo! Sports:

Wow, Crosby REALLY wants his stick back. I thought such a stand-up, giving, caring guy like him would want a fan to have one of his hundreds of hockey sticks.

Speaking of the golden boy, he recently turned down an offer to be on David Letterman. In the spirit of the late night talk show host, I give you the Top 10 reasons Sidney Crosby passed on being on the Late Show. Reasons 6 and 7 would be enough for me to skip out on Letterman.

There are very few things more serious in hockey than a knee-to-knee collision. Should there be an automatic penalty for these vicious hits? Two games won't cut it. These hits can seriously injure, and even end careers.

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NHL.com:

Today through Wednesday, all NHL GMs will meet in Boca Raton to discuss headshots in the league. Hopefully they discuss other career and life threatening injuries that take place on the ice. Oh, and all the GMs...meeting in Florida...and some colleges are already on Spring Break. Coincidence? I think not.

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Quote of the day:

"To add we will have to subtract and what we do remains to be determined. Maybe it's a trade, maybe there is a trade that makes sense to help the back end."

- GM Scott Howson on the d-man situation heading into free agency.

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Fight of the weekend:

Columbus RW Jared Boll v. San Jose D Brad Staubitz

Honorable Mention:

Dallas C Steve Ott v. Pittsburgh RW Craig Adams. Video.

More photos » Jay LaPrete - AP

18 days ago: Vancouver Canucks' Alexander Edler, right, of Sweden, tries to steal the puck from Columbus Blue Jackets' Derek Dorsett during the second period of an NHL hockey game Tuesday, March 2, 2010, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)

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In this edition of Shrapnel: Fallout from yesterday's trades, Clitsome back to Syracuse, Brass injured, Crosby's gear, and more!

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More photos » Terry Gilliam - AP

Columbus Blue Jackets' Raffi Torres (14) skates down ice after stealing the puck from Chicago Blackhawks' Colin Fraser (46) during the first period of an NHL hockey game Sunday, Feb 14, 2010, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Terry Gilliam)

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In this edition of Shrapnel: Tonights lineups, winning the gold, trades, some more trades, trades, and um, trades, and more!

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