Andrew Tolliver
Dec 08, 2009 Oct 05, 2011 239 2527
a fan of
Cleveland Indians
Portland Trail Blazers
Cleveland Browns
Ohio St. Buckeyes
Ohio St. Buckeyes
GSP, Lesnar, Johnathan Brookins, Cody MacKenzie
Columbus Blue Jackets
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Kyle Wellwood?
Try this one on for size. The KHL's Atlant has apparently terminated Wellwood's contract. Although the team hasn't made it official...
"Considering that the winter holidays in Russia are a 10-day marathon, with virtually everyone being off from work until January 11, 2011, the information about Atlant's contract termination hasn't been made official by the club."
Those crazy Russians! Apparently Wellwood's 8 points in 25 games (with a TOI of 8:39) isn't good enough. If the release does become official, he'll return to the NHL.
Now, I ask you three things:
1. Is Kyle Wellwood a player you're interested in?
2. If so, is he the kind of player that would fit in Arniel's style of play?
3. What moves would you make to bring him in? (Someone's gotta go.)
The Winter Classic, and Columbus
With the recent talk of who should be playing in the next WC, The Copper and Blue's Derek Zona writes a brilliant piece explaining why it would be wise for the league to let Columbus host a Classic.
"Columbus would give the league a Western Conference host, yet the city isn't far from the Eastern media, and it's within driving distance of a number of NHL markets who would help Columbus fill the enormous Horseshoe. The Blue Jackets could certainly use the revenue, the media attention and the raised profile within hockey.The NHL needs the city and fans to see hockey on the second-biggest stage the league can offer and hopefully drive more hips through the turnstiles.
The league could pit Columbus against the defending Stanley Cup Champion (unless it's a Canadian team), Detroit or Pittsburgh (both cities are a short drive away from Columbus and would bring plenty of fans), or New York or Philadelphia (if television ratings are the overriding concern).
The Horseshoe cries out for a night game, because as college football fans know, the Horseshoe at night is an amazing atmosphere -- a perfect stage for the Winter Classic. The opportunity is a unique one because the NHL cannot support any of the other expansion markets in this manner. Unless the teams in those markets are able to make a Stanley Cup Final, the league cannot bring such an important game with a sizeable national spotlight and enormous media coverage to those markets."
Michael Leighton?
The Flyers placed the disgruntled goalie on waivers this morning. Leighton was stuck in a triangle in Philly with rookie star Sergei Bobrovski, and vet Brian Boucher. He's in the first year of a 2-year $3.1 million dollar contract.
Its a long shot, but if the coaches don't think Mase is really ready, maybe some time in the AHL is necessary. Leighton could be a solid option.
NHL Power Rankings - Hanging on by a Thread
by Andrew Tolliver on Dec 30, 2010 1:30 PM EST
in Power Rankings
on The Cannon
The Power Rankings are now out. Keep in mind they were posted within the last few days so they might not reflect the current records of the league.
After a holiday hiatus, we're bringing the ever so popular power rankings back! Its been another struggling December for the Jackets, but a big win on Monday brings hope going into the new year. Can Columbus finish 2010 on a strong note and take 2011 by storm?
CARRY THE FLAG!!!
GO JACKETS!!!
6 comments
Trades, Planes, and Automobiles
by Andrew Tolliver on Dec 28, 2010 11:16 AM EST
on The Cannon
As the calendar year comes to an end, and we've seen the ups and downs of our beloved Jackets, we're starting to see our weaknesses. The trade deadline is February 28. Just two months away that will surely fly by. Through yesterday, we're sitting in 12th place, but only 6 points out of 4th. Another tight conference gives us hope for the rest of the year. With games against the Maple Leafs, Senators, Preds and 'Yotes, 6 out of 8 points would go a long way.
It might be early, but its always fun to talk trades. So for now, let this be a place to make deals, argue, and support others. Have fun with it!
A few days ago, PomeroyCBJFan had this to say. I read a story from Puck Daddy recently about Dallas, and Richards' possible future with the team. The same thing ran through my head. Bring him to Columbus. So, props for bringing it up, Pomeroy!
I think he'd be a great addition to the team. No doubt about it. But, this post isn't just for coming up with ways to get Richards to Columbus, throw out any ideas you got. Anything that can make this team better, and get them back into the playoffs.
Fire Away!
Knutsen, Naudascher find closure
"Yesterday, almost nine years after 13-year-old Brittanie Cecil died after being struck by a hockey puck, Naudascher finally met the man who had been carrying around his own anguish for the loss of her little girl.
Espen Knutsen, the former Columbus Blue Jackets player who shot the puck that struck Brittanie, embraced the trembling mother the moment he saw her, and the two began the closure that had escaped them both."
This story covers the emotional meeting between Knutsen and Naudascher. Its a shame that so many made Knutsen look like a bad guy because of a fluke accident. I'm glad to hear that there are no ill feelings toward anyone after what happened that night almost nine years ago. This is a great heart-warming story.
The 50 best Names in the NHL
A couple former Jackets make this is. I hope its funny enough to forget about last night's...um..."game".
Enjoy.
NHL Power Rankings - Never Give Up, Never Surrender
by Andrew Tolliver on Dec 16, 2010 2:20 PM EST
in Power Rankings
on The Cannon
The Power Rankings are now out. Keep in mind they were posted within the last few days so they might not reflect the current records of the league.
The Blue Jackets are still trying to string together a few wins to really jump up the standings. With the West as tight as it is, a 3 or 4-game win streak will go a long way. The last week of games have really put a scare into everyone. Is this team a first-quarter wonder? Was last year just a fluke? Can the Power Play be salvaged and turned back to respectable? We'll know soon enough.
CARRY THE FLAG!!!
GO JACKETS!!!
NHL Power Rankings - Jackets humbled, brought back to Earth
by Andrew Tolliver on Dec 9, 2010 7:45 PM EST
in Power Rankings
on The Cannon
The Power Rankings are now out. Keep in mind they were posted within the last few days so they might not reflect the current records of the league.
There is an eerie feeling surrounding this team right now. Rewind to this time last year that the Blue Jackets went on a losing streak that killed their hot start, and for all intents and purposes, ruined their season. Fast forward to present day, and the Jackets started the season great (the best in franchise history - again) and another losing streak slowed them down.
Time to sink, or swim boys!
(Side note: During games 21-25 last season, the Blue Jackets went 0-3-2. This year, 0-4-1. Both years, the next win came in game 26.)
CARRY THE FLAG!!!
GO JACKETS!!!
D-Mac and Wilson in it for the long haul
"Get a place."
Those have to be 3 of the most uplifting words a player with a 2-way contract can hear. Could this be a look into the future when Juice returns?
With MacKenzie and Wilson staying in Columbus, Andrew Murray could find himself in Springfield or on the move to another club. I guess we'll have to wait and see.
The key to avoiding situations like the Pittsburgh fiasco
Mike at From the Rink takes what we've said all along about attendance, and backed it with numbers. Just further proof that if you win, they will come.
NHL Power Rankings - Columbus Opening Eyes
by Andrew Tolliver on Dec 2, 2010 8:47 AM EST
in Power Rankings
on The Cannon
The Power Rankings are now out. Keep in mind they were posted within the last few days so they might not reflect the current records of the league.
Since our last Power Rankings post here at the Cannon, the CBJ enjoyed a win over Nashville, won an unnecessary thriller on Long Island and dropped a home and home against Detroit. Despite losing back to back games for the first time all year, a lot of folks are pretty high on the Blue Jackets right now.
Where will the team go from here? Does the PP improve? Does Filatov start scoring? Nashville is coming to town looking for revenge, and games in Buffalo and home against those pesky Penguins finish out the week!
GO JACKETS!!!
This is the time
Through 20 games last year the Jackets were 12-6-2. Great start right?
Well over the next 20 games went just 3-12-5 to start the landslide that ended their season. Its crucial to start winning games now.
As far as the fans go, this is the time to be shown this team is for real.
A very happy Thanksgiving to everyone in Cannonland! May your travels be safe, and may your stomachs be full!...and of course, Go Jackets!
The Cannon staff
On the Road Again
by Andrew Tolliver on Nov 24, 2010 3:14 PM EST
on The Cannon
Over the years there have been a lot of reasons the Jackets as an organization have not been successful. Some factors include not having a top line center, poor defense, poor coaching...the same old song and dance. Most of us have experienced it all. One thing we've all seen, but may have never really put it perspective is the team's performance on the road.
We're going to take a little trip down memory road, so I'm sorry ahead of time for the bad memories. Don't fret - I think I see the light at the end of the tunnel.
For the Blue Jacket fan in your life
With the holidays right around the corner (don't let the 60 degree weather fool you) here's a handy list for the Blue Jackets fan in your family! You'll find just about everything on this list, so your shopping is complete!
What will Ethan Moreau's return do to the lineup?
by Andrew Tolliver on Nov 19, 2010 3:02 PM EST
on The Cannon
Ethan Moreau is on the verge of returning to the lineup. The broken hand that was suffered at the hands (no pun intended) of the same Anaheim (Mighty, hehe) Ducks the Jackets will face tonight is healing. We were hearing reports from Coach Arniel that Moreau could play on this road trip if there were any significant injuries to the team. Thankfully thats not the case.
(Side note: Since his hand was "swelling like a grapefruit" I'm curious if it looked something like this - which would be pretty cool.) More after the jump!
NHL Power Rankings - Columbus
by Andrew Tolliver on Nov 18, 2010 7:42 PM EST
in Power Rankings
on The Cannon
The Power Rankings are now out. Keep in mind they were posted within the last few days so they don't reflect the current record of the league.
While the big win against St. Louis impressed many, the encore against Colorado really made people hesitant to elevate this team into the top 10. So, here we are, a week later - a big win against a tough opponent, and an encore game coming up. What will the Jackets do? Lets hope they get the monkey, or in this case, duck, off their backs.
GO JACKETS!!!
The Best Seats in the House?
I had no idea the Jackets had this available. Only if I had the money...
They asked, so I'll ask...where do you want to sit when you're at Nationwide Arena?
Blues lose Oshie for 3 months
The broken ankle suffered by TJ Oshie on Wednesday in Columbus will keep him out of action for about 3 months. He is St. Louis' leading scorer with 1-9-10.
NHL Power Rankings - Columbus Making Moves
by Andrew Tolliver on Nov 12, 2010 10:09 AM EST
in Power Rankings
on The Cannon
The Power Rankings are now out. Keep in mind they were posted within the last day or two so they don't reflect the current record of the league.
Most writers are starting to take notice. The Blue Jackets are a team to be reckoned with! The majority of these pieces have Columbus in their top 10!!!
To this point, SB Nation and Yahoo! Sports haven't released their newest rankings, we'll skip those for now. When (if) they become available, I'll keep you guys updated!
GO JACKETS!!!
Rex Ryan adds fuel to the fire
Taking a page out of the Braylon Edwards book of sportsmanship.
Talking 3rd Jerseys
Puck Daddy's take on the unveiling of our new jersey:
"The Jackets are inviting fans to the Mall at Tuttle Crossing in Columbus on Wed., Nov. 24 to witness the new jersey's debut ... as the Blue Jackets are playing the New York Islanders on Nassau Coliseum ice that night."
NHL Power Rankings
by Andrew Tolliver on Nov 4, 2010 11:32 PM EDT
in Power Rankings
on The Cannon
The Power Rankings are now out for week 4. Keep in mind they were posted within the last day or two so they don't reflect the current record of the league.
All in all I'd say the team is finally starting to gain some respect especially from media outlets where they usually don't (CBS Sports, get with the program!)
If you're still cautious and optimistic thats fine, but if you're still in doubt, check your pulse. Good things are coming to Columbus.
Shrapnel - 11/4/10
by Andrew Tolliver on Nov 4, 2010 10:49 AM EDT
in Shrapnel
on The Cannon
After a lengthy absense, Shrapnel has returned! Lets get to work...
- Wednesday's Three Stars from Puck Daddy. The 'yotes get a trick from an unlikely source, a Mason makes 52 saves, and a Devil scores two on an empty net.
- Anaheim recently lost a member of its hockey family. Please join me in mourning the loss of George Parros' mustache. May the memories of this mustache always be happy, and like the phoenix that rises from the ashes, may your return be quick. God speed, dear mustache.
- Take a look at the league standings through Wednesday night. Interesting notes: Looks like Tampa is legit, Toronto is still Toronto, New Jersey (wtf?!) is about as dangerous as a basket of kittens, San Jose and Calgary don't look like the top dogs of old, and the Central division is the toughest in hockey.
- Steven Stamkos is already making his case for league MVP. He was named the top star for October leading all scorers with 19 points and helping the Lightning to a 7-2-1 record.
- The Ducks have opted to keep Cam Fowler for the season, and not send him back to his junior team. Fowler has played in 7 games scoring 1-2-3 while logging significant ice time for the Ducks blue line.
- Only a few weeks into the season and the rumor mills are churning hard. Will Iggy find a new home if Calgary can't step it up? If needed, is he someone Columbus should look into acquiring? Lets hear it in the comments!
- 10 games into the season, Ryan Kennedy over at The Hockey News looks at a handful of rookies including top draft picks Taylor Hall and Tyler Seguin, and some others who have made an impact. Can you guess which Jacket made the list?
- In case you missed it, Alex the Great struck again! Everyone's favorite (or least favorite depending on if you're from Pittsburgh or not) Russian scored twice in 12 seconds this past Saturday as the Caps ruined the Flames 7-2.
- Following up with the Iggy rumors, Cory Lavalette picks the Three Best Fits for the Flames captain, the good news is one of them is a Central division team, bad news is, its not us.
- Get to know G Steve Mason in 60 seconds.
- Finally, the Top 5 plays of the last week of Jackets action.
Former Jackets Draft Pick recovering from lacerated neck
D-man Will Weber who is playing at Miami (OH) took a skate to the left side of his neck. Thankfully, Will is doing fine after being released Sunday.
WARNING: If you have a weak stomach, avoid the link altogether.
Cribbs in, MoMass still questionable, likely out
Latest word says Cribbs is going to be ready to play Sunday against Nawlins, despite not practicing Wednesday or Thursday.
Massaquoi still hasn't practiced this week, but a concussion will do that to ya...
Taking Sides - A Message to the Fans: Don't get in a players face
More times than not I criticize Puck Daddy for the things they write, especially when it comes to our beloved Jackets. Today, is a new day however.
Justin Bourne wants everyone to remember - these professional athletes are HUMAN. Just like you and me, they can only take so much. This piece came to be after the recent actions of Vancouver C Rick Rypien.
In case you've been under a rock for the last week, this is what happened.
While Bourne doesn't openly defend Rypien and his careless actions, he tries to make everyone understand that even professional athletes get caught up in the moment. Note to all fans, everywhere: Heckle, yell, scream, give the away team the business, but don't do it to their faces.
NHL Power Rankings - Week 2
by Andrew Tolliver on Oct 21, 2010 9:33 AM EDT
in Power Rankings
on The Cannon
The latest Power Rankings are out! After the jump take a look at where the Jackets stand in comparison to the rest of the league! Agree? Disagree? Let us know what you think in the comments.
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