COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — The Columbus Jackets held their first practice of training camp on Thursday. The team was divided into two groups, which participated in morning and afternoon sessions.
While there is always optimism about the new season in the preseason, this group embodies a collective confidence that they will build upon last year’s campaign. Head Coach Dean Evason mentioned after practice that he and his staff put together videos showing the team what CBJ hockey looks like, using the last six games to end last year’s late playoff push.
“We put together our videos to show the guys where each coach has his department, and systematically, we were just dialed in,” said Evason. “We were all on the same page, and that’s what we’d like to continue here, moving toward. They were all dialed in with the system, and they were working not only hard but working together, and that’s what we need to continue here to move forward.”
The Jackets return a bulk of their lineup while adding depth at forward with the additions of veterans Charlie Coyle and Miles Wood through a trade with the Colorado Avalanche, as well as depth at goaltender.
The first practice of the ice featured pace and high energy as they took the first step in becoming the playoff-caliber team they believe they can be this season.
“That’s what you look forward to all summer,” said Captain Boone Jenner on returning to the ice as a team. “The excitement is high, the competition is high; it was a fun practice to be a part of. The guys are locked in from day one, it’s good to see.”
The Blue Jackets host the St. Louis Blues for their first of four straight preseason games starting on September 21 at 5 P.M.