6 thoughts from Columbus Blue Jackets president Mike Priest: 'We are all angry and disappointed'
Their record is abysmal.
The Blue Jackets have shown “growth” from last season in statistical measures, but the one stat that matters most has repeatedly socked them in the proverbial gut.
Losses have mounted, stars aren’t performing up to expectations and costly mistakes are magnified by the Jackets’ lack of firepower. The penalty kill’s outstanding, but the power play’s a fine mess again.
They’ve gone winless in nine straight games, tying a franchise record, Johnny Gaudreau’s been benched a couple times and Patrik Laine was scratched for the first time in his NHL career. Add it all up and you’ve got a frustrated team, an angry fan base and a growing cacophony for sweeping change in Columbus.
Seeking answers, the Dispatch caught up with Blue Jackets president Mike Priest, who offered these thoughts on the state of the team:
Columbus Blue Jackets president Mike Priest says ownership’s pre-season statement regarding no hockey operations staff changes ‘at this time’ stands
Priest: “Our ownership is very engaged and informed and there is near daily dialogue with our hockey operations management team. With regards to the statement made prior to the start of training camp, what we said then still applies. Everyone has a clear understanding of what the goals, objectives and expectations are for this season and thereafter.”
Columbus Blue Jackets president Mike Priest understands the fans' viewpoint
Priest: “Obviously, we are not happy with our win-loss record to date, and we are listening to our fans, and share their deep frustration and disappointment. We know emotions are running high. If we are honest with each other, we are all angry and disappointed.
The fact everyone – both within and outside our organization – cares as much as they do and is so emotionally connected to this team is a great thing. We should not be happy or content, and we are not.”
Columbus Blue Jackets president Mike Priest says ownership backs the team's hockey leadership
Priest: “From a management perspective, we cannot let our emotions dictate decisions that may not be in the long-term best interest of the franchise. It is important to understand that in all our companies, we strive to employ competent and talented people and allow them to lead and manage with a great deal of autonomy. They continue to have our support, as long as they hold such positions.”
Columbus Blue Jackets president Mike Priest says they are continuing to review their situation
Priest: “As disappointed as we are with our current record, the season is still relatively young, and our collective evaluation of the organization and its performance is ongoing. While we understand the high level of interest, we do not intend to perform that evaluation in a public forum.”
Columbus Blue Jackets president Mike Priest addresses hiring and resignation of former coach Mike Babcock
Priest: “The events of this past summer surrounding our head coach position were very disruptive and unprecedented. Although we were optimistic and hopeful for a good start, we were not blind to the fact that this season, especially early on, might be very challenging given all that transpired. That is indeed where we find ourselves.”
Columbus Blue Jackets president Mike Priest addresses responsibility for hiring of Babcock, team’s rough start
Priest: “Responsibility for our current situation rests with everyone. From owners and senior management to coaches and players, our priority is to evaluate, change where necessary, improve, and ultimately deliver a winning team.
We are incredibly appreciative for the support we receive from our fans, season ticket holders and corporate partners and do not take that for granted, so I want to assure everyone that is the current focus of everyone here and will continue to be so.”
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This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Blue Jackets' Priest gives 6 thoughts on state of the team
