COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Decisions, decisions - that is the refrain echoing through the halls of Nationwide Arena as the Blue Jackets make their preparations for the season opener on Oct. 9 in Buffalo.
On the one side, there is the list of the walking wounded. Nathan Horton (back), Boone Jenner (hand) and Ryan Murray (knee). Add into that mix the still-unsigned Ryan Johansen with six days to go.
On the other side, the list of players that see an opening to make their mark and suit up for Columbus next week. Brian Gibbons, Jerry D'Amigo, Michael Chaput, Cody Goloubef, Alex Wennberg, Marko Dano and Kerby Rychel are all vying for a roster spot.
The reality is that not all of them will make it. But, three or four of the above names are legitimate contenders. Dano, Chaput, Goloubef and Wennberg would seem to be the frontrunners as of 2 p.m. Friday. And, as we all know, that list could change very quickly with Ryan Johansen signing a contract.
With head coach Todd Richards going with a very similar lineup Saturday versus the visiting Predators, it's the last chance for these players to make one last impression. Another thing that Richards likes about having so many rookies still with the team is the energy they bring to the room.
"I always look at the positives," said Richards of the rookies. "It's energy. It's the excitement, everyone has it. They're going to make mistakes, everyone makes mistakes. Those young guys are driving the team.
"I also think that, inside your team, it's that inner competition that helps drive your team. It's these young guys being around and seeing them developing and they're close. That's what helps drive the guys ahead of them."
There is no denying the fact that they will still be a young team when next Thursday rolls around. But, and this is where Richards and the rest of the front office agree, they like having this problem. They relish the fact that they have to make such hard decisions. Having the depth from which to make these choices is something this team hasn't had in the past.
Murray skating
Although defenseman Ryan Murray was skating with the team Friday for practice, he still has not been cleared for contact. He was "just out skating around today," said Richards. He said that Murray being cleared for contact will come from the team doctor or head athletic trainer Mike Vogt. Richards said that Murray isn't there yet.
Gibbons not skating
Brian Gibbons did not skate with the team again Friday. As was said yesterday, he was off for a 'maintenance day' and is day-to-day.
"He's a little banged up, that's all," said Richards. When asked, Richards said that Gibbons could return to practice Saturday.
Johansen still unsigned
Although both sides are talking, an agreement still has yet to be reached between the Blue Jackets and Ryan Johansen. With the season about to commence, progress would seem to be being made, with both sides reportedly bending a bit. The clock is ticking and decisions need to be made. #JoeyWatch is in Day 16...
