The Cannon, a Columbus Blue Jackets community

Blue Jackets' defenseman Jack Johnson reprises his 2010 role with the United States team at the World Championships, being named the team's Captain for the 2012 tournament, which kicks off tomorrow. This is Johnson's fifth time on the US team, including four straight years from 2009-present.

In a vote held Monday evening, the Columbus City Council approved the proposed Arena deal by a unanimous margin. Up next it will go before the mayor and the Franklin County Commissioners.

CBC held a player's-poll regarding other players, arenas and coaches in the NHL. Nice to see a Jackets player show up in one of these categories. Check out some of the other categories - Bob Boughner was also among the assistant coaches most likely to be the next head coach.

The Jackets have officially announced the pre-season schedule. Got any games circled already? Tuesday, September 21 at Atlanta Thrashers Wednesday, September 22 WASHINGTON CAPITALS Friday, September 24 PITTSBURGH PENGUINS Saturday, September 25 at Pittsburgh Penguins Tuesday, September 28 MINNESOTA WILD Thursday, September 30 at Minnesota Wild Friday, October 1 at Washington Capitals Saturday, October 2 ATLANTA THRASHERS Tuesday, October 5 Malmo/Rogle BK

Ryan Kennedy over at The Hockey News argues the #1 priority for the CBJ this offseason should be a center for Rick Nash. I personally think tooling up the blue line is a higher priority, but what do you think?