One of the most exciting offseasons in Columbus history started with Scott Howson trading for Jeff Carter, setting off a chain of fireworks that is still settling as we prepare for training camp.
In our next mock interview, we take a look at what the former Philadelphia Flyer has to offer…
Q) Hi, Jeff. Tell us a little about yourself?
Well, I was born on New Year’s Day, 1985 in London, Ontario, right outside of Toronto. I played for Sault Ste. Marie in the OHL before being drafted by the Flyers as the 11th overall pick in 2003, and eventually joined the Philadelphia Phantoms for their run to the Calder Cup in 2004-2005. I made the Flyers out of camp the next year, and I’ve been regarded as a top six scoring forward ever since. I’ve had a few issues with injuries in the playoffs the past few seasons, but I’m generally a healthy, aggressive player.
Q) Tell us about some intangibles you could bring to the Blue Jackets?
I know what it takes to win. I’ve claimed two gold medals in the World Junior championships, I’ve won the Calder Cup, I’ve been to the Stanley Cup Playoffs in five of the last six seasons, and I’ve been part of a team that’s fought their way to the Stanley Cup Finals. I’ve been a leader in the Philadelphia locker room, so I know how to set an example on the ice, and I’ve been praised for my skating ability, quick, accurate shot, and my willingness to play a complete “two way” game, including being one of my team’s best penalty killers and a major threat on the Power Play.
Q) What areas of your game do you think you can improve on?
I’m an OK setup guy, but I’m not a great one, and that’s something I need to improve on, especially if I’ve got a linemate like Rick Nash. There have also been some concerns about how seriously I take the game off the ice – I need to show the people of Columbus that I’m committed to winning and taking the Blue Jackets to the playoffs.
Q) Can you give us some examples of your hockey accomplishments?
Well, I was a Under 18 Gold Medalist with Team Canada in 2003, took Silver in the World Juniors in 2004, and gold in 2005. As I mentioned, I was part of the Calder Cup winning squad in 2005, I’ve scored 50+ points each season for the last four years, and I was named to the NHL all star team in 2009.