Best/Worst of Blue Jackets

Columbus is looking ahead to another offseason frenzy complete with roster moves and coaching changes as the team enters its final week of play. Here are the Blue Jackets whose performance this season will determine their role in the reshaping process.

MVP: Vinny Prospal – Perhaps the best news out of the Blue Jackets’ organization this year came in early February when it was announced that Prospal signed a one-year contract extension with Columbus. With 51 points this season, Prospal has been the team’s most reliable and least distracting player. He is one of two players on the squad to have played in every game this season. Along with recording the second-highest point total on the team, Prospal has also led the team in the locker room as evidenced by the assistant captain’s “A” he wears on his sweater.

Most Improved: Derek Dorsett – When the season comes to the end, Dorsett will have finally finished his application to become the league’s most hated player. As usual, the winger’s constant intensity has not only caught the ire of his opponents, but it has also created a spark for the Blue Jackets. However, what makes this year different from past years is his ability to score goals and make plays. He is in the midst of a career-best season with 19 points. Dorsett’s role on the team will be safe even if his role in the league is diminished.

Biggest Disappointment: Steve Mason – Before the start of the season, Blue Jackets fans knew that the fate of their season relied on the man between the pipes. Well, the goalie’s sophomore slump has officially lasted three years. With an 89. 2 save percentage and 3.43 goals against average in 44 games this season, it is clear that Mason will not be returning to his original form. If he does, it is likely to be with another team.

Best Forward: Rick Nash – Although his numbers have dropped off from past years, the five-time All Star still leads the Blue Jackets with 56 points. He is undoubtedly the most skilled player in the union blue. However, on April 7^th when Columbus plays its final game of the season, Nash might sound the cannon for the last time. His reign as the team’s top forward is likely to be coming to a close.

Best Defenseman: Nikita Nikitin – Acquired from the St. Louis Blues for Kris Russell early in the season, Nikitin is the Blue Jackets’ best-kept secret. Through 51 games with Columbus, the blue liner has 31 points. Nikitin’s slap shot from the point has been a huge asset to the Blue Jackets’ power play. In front of his own net, Nikitin has shown a willingness to sacrifice the body as he has a team-leading 92-blocked shots. Expect him to be a mainstay on the blue line.