The beat goes on

All you need to know: 13 shots on goal against the Devils on Columbus ice. 3-0 loss.

If nothing else Brian Burke, the truculent one, is quotable: “I think people know my feeling on the shootout generally. It’s almost the same as if the NFL decided overtime games by throwing a ball through a tire.” Amen.

The way they play the game

By now you have seen the video. Probably have watched it several times - in real time and in slow motion. Zdeno Chara rides Canadiens winger Max Pacioretty into a stanchion and Pacioretty drops to the ice. My first thought at the sight of the video before I knew the result, "Is he dead?" Chara doesn't strike many people as the type of guy who would intentionally injure someone. Intentionally ferociously check, yes. Injure, no.

Did he deserve a suspension? Let's be frank - Pacioretty will not play hockey for a long time, perhaps never again. Hockey is a tough, dangerous sport; no league can legislate complete safety. Without evidence as to intent, it's hard for me to insist on punishment despite the dramatic injury.

Is it next year yet?

Five losses in a row - the latest is a shootout loss to St. Louis on the road. Read an unbelievable stat: The Blues went 6 for 8 on the power play in three home games against the Jackets this season. Yikes.

Here's to you, Don Meredith... "Turn out the lights, the party's over."

Klesla Traded

So ends an era as the original Blue Jacket was traded to Phoenix last night. Rusty Klesla, slid defenseman who has battled the injury bug, was shipped to the Coyotes for Scott Upshall and Sami Lepisto. Upshall has offensive potential from the blue line though he an unrestrcited free agent at season's end. Lepisto adds depth to the defense. Klesla simply did not stay healthy enough in his stay in Columbus. Good luck in the desert, Rusty.