from Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet,

- Blue Jackets GM Jarmo Kekalainen said he will take his time, which makes sense because his hire might be determined by personnel choices. Seth Jones said Monday, “I really have to take a step back and think about what I want.”

That’s the biggest question facing the franchise. Columbus has let him know a huge payday awaits, and likely the captaincy, too. Opposing players said the strain of the season, both on-ice and off, noticeably weighed on Jones, so taking time away isn’t a bad idea. The Blue Jackets also want clarity on Zach Werenski, eligible for an extension two years from unrestricted free agency. If both commit, the path is clear. If not, do you rebuild or deal for immediate help?

- Chris Drury is pretty popular. Not sure what he’s going to do with his front office, but there’s a lot of interest in working for him, and, by extension, the Rangers.

- The Boston-Washington kicks off the playoffs on Saturday night. Canadian teams are expected to begin next Wednesday. It might just be me, but do the North Division playoff teams need to wait for Calgary and Vancouver? I can see Edmonton, Montreal, Toronto and Winnipeg annoyed at waiting and getting a tougher schedule.

It’s going to be weird without many late-night games, as Vegas is only Pacific time-zone team in the post-season.

many more Thoughts, including Jack Eicher...