AFTER 31...

Columbus Blue Jackets after 31 Games Played

After 31 games played, the Columbus Blue Jackets sit 14th overall and 9th in the Eastern Conference.  This middle-of-the-pack team can't seem to move ahead in the standings to gain a spot in the playoffs.  A curse that can plague teams into chasing something that is unrealistic and hindering their ability to obtain a top draft pick and build for the future.

• Leading the team in points is defenseman Seth Jones; with 3 goals and 26 assists.

• Troy Terry and Jordan Staal are the next two players highest in points, with 21.

• Inbetween the pipes, Joonas Korpisalo has stolen the net from Elvis Merzlikins.  Although, the up and down play has been a notable trend with Joonas, when it comes to big games and big saves, Joonas has been more consistent compared to Elvis.  It is believed that the GM of Columbus is potentially shopping Elvis Merzlikins in hopes of adding a top player (defense or forward) to try and increase offensive output.  This news was just leaked a short time ago, so it is too early to say whether there has been any interest.

• On the trade front, it looks like Columbus and Edmonton have hooked up again and have a trade on the table awaiting league approval.  Investigating further, it would appear that two players are coming to Columbus and going the other way are: a player and a draft pick.

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