Mar 10, 2015; Raleigh, NC, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman
Jack Johnson(7) looks on during the third period against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena. Columbus defeated Carolina 4-3 in a shoot out. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports
Columbus Blue Jackets – Jack Johnson
Much like the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Blue Jackets have question marks on their blue line. Also similar to the Pens, they made key acquisitions on offense such as Brandon Saad but will roll the dice with their current blue line and address needs as they go.
Jack Johnson is coming off a 2014-15 campaign in which he recorded 40 points (8g, 32a). He is likely in the prime of his career at 28 years old and time is running out for him to make a Stanley Cup run. Many CBJ faithful think it is time to trade Jack Johnson this season and hike up the price for the versatile blue liner.
If the Blue Jackets want to keep up with the rest of the talented Metropolitan Division, Jack Johnson will have to be at his best every night. He will constantly be going against guys like Ovechkin, Crosby, Giroux and Nash week after week and will be given the task of shutting them down. Not only will he be given that task, but he will also be counted on to mentor the young D-men the Blue Jackets have coming up to play next year.
Next: Steve Mason