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"Mike's Random Musings about hockey"
West Lafayette, IN • United States • 21 Years Old • Male
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When I first heard there was an e3 rumor that Michael Peca was comming to Columbus, I kind of got a little excited. Now that he's signed I really have some mixed emotions about him being on the Jackets.

<h3>Why I like Michael Peca as a Blue Jacket</h3>
It seems to me that every year, that the Jackets are a team that look like they can be a decent team on paper, but it never translates to the game on the ice. It also seems like Rick Nash's performances dictate the team's success. However, I think that bringing Peca to Columbus, possibly brings more credibility. Now that they have another big name, you can almost think there might (and i stress might) be more publicity for the Blue Jackets. The fact the Jackets may be making some waves is a sign of improvement.

<h3>Why I'm worried</h3>
Columbus might have made a slight mistake. This could be a move to pad their team's strength on paper. The Jackets need another scoring center, and Peca isn't that guy. Although he is a good face-off guy, and that's a great asset to have, the Jackets are hurting for offensive production. Peca has not scored more than 20 goals since the 2001-02 season. Peca is a head-case at times as well. He is not a locker room guy, which might cause some issues with team chemistry. The biggest problem I have with Peca, is that he seems to have an ego, and with Ken Hitchcock, that will not be acceptable. Peca better understand that before he sets foot on the ice for training camp.

<h3>Final Thoughts</h3>
I am excited for Peca's signing, but there is possible baggage that might be comming along with him. It's nice to see the management finally make some kind of significant move. However, the Jackets need to be careful with Peca, because he might not turn out to be the player they wanted.
August 23, 2007 11:17 AM ET | Delete
Peca has been known to carry an ego, but he's often misunderstood. He plays with a chip on his shoulder, which is more than most of the Jackets' top 6 can say. He's confident yes, honest, yes, but the fact that he knows a few guys in the locker room (Nash, Foote, Chimera) should help the transition, and not cause him to be semi-alienated like he was in Edmonton. But, like you, I welcomed this signing with open arms.
August 23, 2007 11:20 AM ET | Delete
I wouldn't worry. Come trade deadline, they will trade him for some rookies/prospects.
August 23, 2007 2:29 PM ET | Delete
I think this is great for Columbus. They are a team that really has 6-7 guys who should be in the minors. Come next off-season I think there will be a serious house cleaning with 11 players contracts ending, 9 of them UFA's.
August 23, 2007 6:10 PM ET | Delete
I've always thought Peca was nails.I'm sorry our Sens didn't sign him.
August 23, 2007 7:12 PM ET | Delete
Another great Blog hockeyisgd. In my opinion, it was the right move for columbus. good luck this season
August 23, 2007 10:59 PM ET | Delete
I think it was a great move by your organization. As long as Peca stays healthy, he will certainly help CBJ. HOwever, I still doubt he will lead them to post season as he is not that good anymore. BUt I totally agree with pwozNYR -MP will be traded for youth/draft picks come trading deadline, so CBJ will win in this situation no matter what. Good luck
August 24, 2007 10:28 AM ET | Delete
Michael Peca brings to the locker room and ice what few others do...a true heart and determination to win. A brilliant move on JD's part. He knows the game, the players, and already proved he and Peca are the right mix for the Blues. Sorry we didn't bring him back to the Isles.
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