"We started off the season hot and with the top of the conference play, I felt it was my responsibility to add to the team and give us a shot at going deep into the playoffs this year."

Earlier in the season, the Jackets unloaded a significant portion of the farm to acquire Jaccob Slavin from the NYR and while moving a big portion of the future to an in-division rival isn't always ideal, it was worth the price for Slavin. Still getting acclimated, Slavin has had mixed reviews but he was acquired for his defense in the playoffs and will be leaned on as the Jackets approach the postseason. 

The Jackets also made 2 deadline deals, re-acquiring Sven Baertschi and Brandon Gormley in separate deals with Jersey and Boston. Going the other way to Jersey was Jeremie Poirier, William Karlsson and a 2nd Rd Pick and Boston acquired Nolan Allan, Marc Methot, 2nd and 3rd Rd Picks and cash.

"While it may have meant emptying some of the cupboards, keeping Lekkerimaki and Dvorak were two key priorities. We were able to vastly improve our forwards and defense in prep for the playoff run, which signals the belief I have in this team to win a championship."

These deals not only give the Jackets an opportunity this playoffs but opens an opportunity in the offseason for competition for those up and comers from the farm.

The Jackets host the Flyers Tuesday, a significant opportunity to test themselves against one of the East's hottest and best teams.