By William Espy
The Blue Jackets increasingly find diamonds in the rough when
it comes to the entry draft, but this extends back up to seven years ago. In
the fifth round of the 2008 NHL entry draft, the Blue Jackets drafted a small
winger (currently in 2015, he is 5’11” 187 pounds) named Matt Calvert. At the
time, Calvert appeared to be nothing special compared to most NHL prospects
however he has grown into a core piece on the Blue Jackets.
“Matty Hustle” as he is affectionately called by the Blue
Jackets faithful is known for what his name implies. Even during the dark parts
of recent history, whether it be the end of the Nash period or the injury
plagued season that Columbus fans remember like it was yesterday (because it
essentially was) Calvert was always a bright spot. During the successful run
however, Calvert seemed to be forgotten by many. His contributions seemed to
not matter as much. One thing that will never be forgotten about him, is that
he scored the game winning goal to give the Blue Jackets their first playoff
win in franchise history.
FREE AGENT
STATUS: RESIGN
Calvert is currently a pending RFA, and he has never been
able to have his “breakout” year due to injuries that occur almost annually. Once
he is able to have that year which appears to be coming sooner rather than
later, he will cement his place in the Blue Jackets lineup. I would not be
surprised if the Blue Jackets match any offer sheet that he receives after July
1 (If they give him a qualifying offer) if it becomes necessary.
STATUS:
AVALIABLE FOR THE RIGHT PRICE
If the Blue Jackets do resign Calvert, there is no guarantee
that he will stay in Columbus long-term. If Jarmo Kekalainen receives what he
feels to be a fair offer that fills a need, he will likely take it. The “right
price” for Matt Calvert would be similar to that of Cam Atkinson. If Calvert is
going to be moved out of Columbus, it’ll likely have to be a massive
overpayment coming back. Expect to see Matty Hustle back in the union blue next
season.
No comments:
Post a Comment