from Michael Arace of the Columbus Dispatch,

A solitary veteran player dropped by the OhioHealth Ice Haus for a quick look at the Blue Jackets’ prospect-campers yesterday afternoon.

“I can’t wait to play in the (Eastern Conference),” R.J. Umberger said.

His eyes got wide and his body twitched. It was clear: He really cannot wait.

“I’m sure everyone is as excited as I am,” Umberger said.

He was speaking for his fellow veterans, but he could have been speaking for any of the 300 or so fans who nearly filled the stands at the Jackets’ practice facility. Another clutch of fans milled about in the rain outside, on the West Plaza of Nationwide Arena, where they watched Bruce Drennan of SportsTime Ohio stage his All Bets are Off show from beneath a tent. Umberger sat for an interview before he wandered into the Ice Haus.

“I think we have something to go off of now, given how last year went,” Umberger said. “There is some realness to it. We learned a lot about expectations. We’re not going so much on hope; we’re just continuing what we’re doing. And we know we can do it."

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