2005 Columbus Blue Jackets Preview
Welcome to the 2005 Columbus Blue Jackets Preview page. The NHL Hockey Season is around the corner and what better way to remind the public how exciting the NHL can be with a 2005 season preview from Maddux Sports. Remember if you are betting on NHL hockey look no further, as we are one of the few sports handicapping services that offers NHL picks against the hockey betting line and can help you be a winner this NHL betting season.
2005 Columbus Blue Jackets Hockey Season Preview
The Columbus Blue Jackets finished second in the Western Conference in two categories during the 2003-04 season. They let in the second most goals (239 GA) and they scored the second fewest goals (177 GF). In order to make it into the playoffs they’ll have to reverse those numbers. But can they?
Returning players include two dynamic wingers—Rick Nash and Nikolai Zherdev. In his two NHL seasons Nash has averaged 77 games, 29 goals, and 18 assists. He can make things happen on the ice. Coming back for his second season is Nikolai Zherdev, a player who can also generate excitement and goals. In 57 games with the Blue Jackets in 2003-04 Zherdev had 34 points, notching 13 goals and 21 assists. The theory is this year with the rule changes that open up the ice this skater-finesse player will be even more dangerous.
Perhaps the biggest signing for the new season was former Ottawa goalkeeper Martin Prusek. In 29 games in 2003-04 Prusek was rated 16th overall and had an impressive 2.12 GAA. That’s better than Blue Jackets’ starter Marc Denis who let in an average of 2.56 goals per game over 66 contests. It will be interesting to see who is the starting tender for the team this season or if Columbus decides to use them in tandem.
One signing that is especially revealing is that of tough, veteran defenseman Adam Foote. Foote, who’s entering his 14th NHL season, brings with him an average of about 100 penalty minutes per season. Perhaps a new enforcer, an up-tick in scoring, and some fresh pads in the crease will create a reversal of fortune for Columbus.
