Evening Update - 12/5/11

Normally I'd save news for Shrapnel in the mornings, but we're seeing some fast moving news right now around the Jackets, and it wouldn't do to be late.

First, congratulations are in order for a pair of Jackets Prospects: Goalie Anton Forsberg was named to the World Juniors squad for Team Sweden, while T.J. Tynan has made Team USA's preliminary roster, but must survive one more round of cuts before we'll know if he'll represent the US in the tournament.

The big news, though is that TSN's Darren Dreger reports NHL re-alignment could be settled by the end of tonight at the BOG meetings in Pebble Beach. According to the Dispatch's Aaron Portzline, the realignment is a top priority for the meeting, and the four division solution seems to be gaining support.

The real question is how Eastern teams feel about the home and home schedule. If they're willing to accept the increased travel, it's likely we'll see big changes. If not, the Jackets will be left hoping that enough teams in both conferences do NOT want to see the Red Wings moved into the East - a nervous proposition for all involved.

Edit: A four "conference" realignment has passed. We will add news of the new divisions as soon as we know more.