Columbus, Ohio - adding to what is fast becoming one of the most magical years of his eight-year career in the NHL, Nick Foligno was named as one of the captains for this years' All-Star game next week in Columbus.
"I'm representing the city," said Foligno. "I take that personally. Joey and Bob are, as well. I think it's a great opportunity for us to showcase what Columbus is all about and how big of a hockey town it is. I'm really excited to show the fans and the hockey world what it's all about here."
At this point of the season, he's equaled his career best in goals (18) through 39 games played, set last year in 70 games. He signed a six-year contract extension on December 31, 2014. He was selected to participate in his first NHL All-Star Game last Saturday. And he has now been named as one of the captains, along with the Chicago Blackhawks' Jonathan Toews.
"I'm really looking forward to the camaraderie of meeting all those guys, having a lot of laughs and fun with it. I'll be nervous, I'm sure, when I get up there to pick somebody."
His assistant captains will be the Chicago Blackhawks' Patrick Kane and the Los Angeles Kings Drew Doughty.
"Those two are world-class players and guys that I have a lot of respect for in this league. Both are Stanley Cup Champions. I plan on this being a really fun time for us. I'm really going to enjoy being around all of those guys, and maybe picking up a few things from Patrick Kane and Drew Doughty to help us here in Columbus."
Desperate Times
Playing a desperate game at the halfway point of the season is a familiar role for the Blue Jackets. They have but to look to the last few seasons for precedent. After digging a hole early in the season, they find themselves on the outside looking in at the midpoint when they play Game 41 tonight against the Montreal Canadiens.j
"If you're a competitor and you're serious about making the playoffs and being a playoff team," said Mark Letestu, "there has to be desperation. Unfortunately, with the month we had in November, we put ourselves in the situation with our backs against the wall. And it will be for the rest of the year."
"We have to be ready to go every night. If the desperation is not there, we're not going to make it."
Blue Jackets (projected) Lineup
Forwards: Hartnell / Johansen / Foligno
Atkinson / Dubinsky / Calvert
Morin / Wennberg / Collins
Tropp / Letestu / Boll
Defense: Johnson / Savard
Tyutin / Goloubef
Wisniewski / Connauton
Goal: Bobrovsky
