Last season, after the lockout shortened pre-season "camp" to virtually nothing, Boone Jenner was the last cut. He was sent to his back to his junior team in Oshawa where he put up 82 points in 56 games. The Blue Jackets didn't want his entry-level deal to kick in just yet.
Coming into camp this month, the thought was Jenner would likely start out at AHL Springfield, and perhaps garner a call-up later if injuries occurred. The top 12 appeared to be pretty well set with everybody coming back except Vinny Prospal. Nathan Horton was signed in the off-season, although he won't be ready to go until November or December.
Jenner's position is in the middle at center - a position where the Jackets are loaded. Anisimov, Johansen, Letestu, Dubinsky, and MacKenzie all are expected to make the team as centers. Given the depth, the coaches have also tried out Jenner as a left-winger. In the preseason, he's mostly played alongside Dubinsky and Gaborik, a line that has thoroughly dominated.
Throw those expectations out the window. Jenner is solidifying himself as one of the best forwards on the team, even at just 20 years old. He has put up 3 goals in 3 games and has set up opportunities for others every game. He's making the decision increasingly difficult on the staff.
Todd Richards has said as much. He was quoted as saying it's not much of a decision right now, regarding Jenner making the team. Dubinsky said, "that guy works his (rear end) off." Jenner hasn't just displayed skill, but a tough grit that the Jackets are looking for. He had two goals, including the game-winner, in Saturday's 5-3 win at Pittsburgh.
With just a few preseason games remaining, one of the remaining questions about the roster are where Jenner is going to play. At this rate, Boone should start looking for an apartment or condo to call his own in the 614. Hopefully his preseason play translates to the regular season. Either way, this is a new problem for the CBJ - too many good players and not enough roster spots.
No comments:
Post a Comment