The North Shall Rise Again

Before I begin the Columbus Blue Jackets season preview, I would like to send out my condolences to those who lost loved ones in the plane crash in Russia yesterday.  This affects not just those who knew them the best, but also those who have cheered from the stands.  Now, a moment of silence. *stops for a minute*

Thank you.

The 2010-11 Columbus Blue Jackets lost in a lot of ways, from the disaster that is their third jerseys to on the ice, where they once again, missed the playoffs.  This has caused a sharp decline in attendance, forcing GM Scott Howson to scrap the "grow from within" approach.  Even with the acquisitions of Jeff Carter and James Wisniewski, everything still centers around Rick Nash.  He was the best player on the team last year, and too often, he was the only player producing.  Carter's arrival combined with the continued development of Derrick Brassard, Antoine Vermette, and R.J. Umberger should see Nash's numbers go up.  All of Columbus' hopes for a playoff spot hinges on goaltender Steve Mason.  Since his Calder Trophy year in 2009, he has struggled mightily.  The acquisitions this offseason give him fewer excuses for not performing, and all eyes will be on him to get back to his rookie numbers.  Carter's arrival should help ease the transition for Ryan Johansen, who will likely fill a third line role when the season starts.  He brings a winning pedigree with him, as the Portland Winterhawks, the team he played for last season, made it to the WHL finals.

Prediction: 11th in the West

Movie: Dead Snow

A movie about reanimated soldiers?  Could this mirror the Blue Jackets' fortunes, minus the killings?