Randy Jones?

According to Delcotimes the Flyers are expected to release veteran defenseman Randy Jones today, according to a team source.

Jones is a four-year veteran who has been one of the team's rocks on the blue line. The 6-foot, 2-inch Jones played in 47 games for the Flyers last year. He tallied four goals and four assists and racked up22 penalty minutes. In his NHL career, he has 13 goals and 56 assists.

The source indicated the team was looking to clear space under the NHL salary cap. Jones is scheduled to count $2.75 million against the cap this year.

If Jones clears waivers, he likely will be assigned to the Phantoms, but he could be claimed by another team

We know the Jackets can't afford that 2.75 million hit but say he clears waivers on the way down... would the Jackets claim him at 50% of his salary if he were to be recalled?

The book on Jones according to Forecaster:

ASSETS: Has good size and solid puck-moving skills. Is capable of logging important minutes and will play the body. Can also chip in with some offense.
FLAWS: Is extremely inconsistent in the hitting department and could stand to play a more physical game. Must tighten up his defensive-zone coverage.
CAREER POTENTIAL: Top six defenseman.

He didn't have a great year last year but put up 31 points the previous season. Hitch also has some experience with Jones.

At this point I'm keeping all options open.

John Moore's play is starting to make some waves throughout hockey circles which is evident by this article from Faceoff.com:

In the end, expect Jackets GM Scott Howson to proceed with caution with regards to Moore's development. After all, the club has been accused in the past of keeping top draft picks with the big club before they were ready for the rigors of the NHL. That said, Moore's performance this pre-season has given Columbus management plenty to think about leading up to the season opener against Minnesota on October 3.

Game 7 of 8 in the preseason tonight @ Boston. I'll start doing the Game Boxes more regularly once the season starts.

The Jackets have yet to win a preseason game on the road and tonight will mark Martin Skoula's debut in a Jackets uni as he looks to make a push for the big squad.

Nick points out that if you have Direct TV and you have the sports pack you can watch the Jackets take on the Bruins tonight!

..but wait a sec... teams actually televise preseason games? Who knew!

I'll check in with Mike from the R Bar today to see if they get NESN and report back.

-LTL