The absolute most annoying thing is someone trying to tell another person how to be a fan. Telling another person how to think or feel. This isn't going to be one of those columns.
But what we are about to see from the Columbus Blue Jackets should be one for the ages regardless of what takes place. If this team with a million injuries is able to make the playoffs then they could be remembered as one of the biggest ragtag bunch of players since the first Mighty Ducks. It would be that impressive if they made it.
If they don't make it, then you already have the built-in excuse. The team was in a playoff position deep into February then injuries just derailed them. It becomes a rallying cry. No one is going to fault them for it, they are going to be encouraged by the season and just move on.
The pros are endless for the team no matter what takes place. Allowing themselves to rebuild and get healthy is a big plus. It doesn't have to be this year where they get over the hump. It should be encouraging to see all of these players in roles that you wouldn't otherwise see them in. The Kevin Stenlund's of the world can play in the NHL and it is nice to know that in the future they could be a fixture.
Last year drained the pick pool and this year should allow them to replenish it provided they don't go shopping for a high-end piece come deadline day.
Nothing is better for the Blue Jackets then getting their lineup healthy and making sure they can find a group of players that can gel in the long term. A lot of what has been seen this season is just a bunch of information about a bunch of different players and at times it can be tough to decipher.
Are you grading certain players on a curve because of what they have been through thus far? Do they really provide as much value as you think given they are surrounded by AHL players?
It can be used as a reflective period as much as anything else over the next couple of months for the front office.
This team hasn't given up and there is no need for fans to do so. Just remember that no matter what, there is going to be a pot of gold at the end of this rainbow.
