Bobrovsky in Blue

            Hours before the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, Columbus GM Scott Howson addressed the team’s woeful goaltending situation by acquiring Sergei Bobrovsky from the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for a few draft picks.     

            The Blue Jackets traded second and fourth round picks in this year’s draft in addition to a fourth round pick in next year’s draft for the Russian netminder. Howson added to the allure of the acquisition by swapping only draft picks acquired in previous trades. This is reflected below.

Justin K. Aller/Getty Images

2012 Draft

-Second Round – No. 45 overall – acquired from Phoenix

-Fourth Round – No. 117 overall – acquired from Vancouver

2013 Draft

-Fourth Round - acquired from Phoenix

           

            Bobrovsky backed up Ilya Bryzgalov last season earning a 14-10-2 record with a 3.02 GAA and a .899 save percentage in 29 games. In his rookie season (2010-2011) season Bobrovsky recorded a 28-13-8 record for the Flyers, registering a 2.59 GAA and a .909 save percentage.

            Howson did not disclose Bobrovsky's position on the depth chart. Because Curtis Sanford left for the KHL, Steve Mason and Allen York are the Blue Jackets only other goalies under contract. According to Howson, training camp will determine playing time.
            Although Mason has arguably alienated an entire fan base for three straight years, he may flourish in a more competitive nature. He has lost his starting role for now but that is not to say he cannot reclaim it.
            Coach Todd Richards may ultimately chose to use the two-goalie system that Ken Hitchcock used in St. Louis. Goaltenders Jaroslav Halak and Brian Elliot split time between the pipes for the Blues and each finished near the top of the leader boards in GAA and save percentage.
            But the starting role will be awarded much later and at least for a moment, Howson can take a sigh of relief.