Just when
the almighty Central Division appeared to be stepping down from its throne, the
Blue Jackets got their wish in the most bittersweet way. NHL realignment put them
in a better position to play games, but in a worse position to make a
statement.
After years
of disappointment against Detroit, Nashville & co. it appeared that
Columbus was finally emerging from its shell of futility. Then, with the
announcement of its moving to the Eastern Conference, the team was excited for
a less hectic schedule.
But with so
much positive energy towards the future, the Blue Jackets may be overlooking what
they’ve lost. Barring a sweep of their remaining Central Division matchups, they
will not get the chance to stick it to the teams that have served to them an
embarrassing divisional record dating back to the 2000-2001 season.
While the
move to the East will lessen Columbus’ heavy travel demands, it will also bring
about an abrupt change for a team that finally seems to be fitting into its
division. The Blue Jackets’ transition from the bullied to the bullies has been
impeded and thus their opportunity to get revenge will be lost.
Columbus
will face Detroit, a team it posted a 4-0-1 record against this season, only
three times next year. On top of that, the Blue Jackets will play only two
games against current divisional rivals Chicago, St. Louis, and Nashville next
season.
It’s a tough situation for a Columbus team
that appears to be finally moving in the right direction. Nine games will not
be enough time for the Blue Jackets to prove to the Blackhawks, Red Wings,
Predators, and Blues that they are no longer a pile of pieces, but rather a
product of managerial changes, coaching stability, skilled players, and a
lengthy building process.
While
Columbus could continue its success and climb the divisional ladder this
season, it cannot build its reputation as a dominant team in a 48-game season.
The Blue Jackets cannot redeem themselves in a sprint. Twelve seasons of losing
will not be outweighed by a hot streak in a truncated season.
The chance for the Columbus to erase its
reputation as the division’s stooge has passed and now the team will have to
work even harder to make a lasting first impression in its new division.
Needless to say, the Rangers, Penguins, and Devils aren’t exactly going to roll
out the welcome mat for the Blue Jackets come next season.
Perhaps
Columbus’ losing years will make it stronger, but with the team’s switch to the
Eastern Conference, it appears that the ultimate satisfaction has slipped away.
