Hawkeyes/Photoree
OTTAWA- The 2012 NHL All Stars are preparing to hit the ice for the annual skills challenge, on the eve of the All Star game. While we sit and anticipate a greatnight of watching the leagues top talent, plenty of rumors are circulating the Scotiabank Place. Typical for this time of year, given the trade deadline is exactly one month away. One thing is confirmed however, that the Columbus Blue Jackets will host the 2013 National Hockey League All Star weekend at the Arena District in Downtown, Columbus. The news was announced today by the commissioner of the NHL, Gary Bettman. The events will take place January 26-27 2013.
While the Columbus Blue Jackets search for the right answers on the ice, this is certainly the break they were looking for in terms of introducing the Blue Jackets and the city of Columbus to hockey nation.
“The Blue Jackets are honored to host the 2013 All-Star Celebration in Columbus as we believe our city offers a truly unique setting for this special event,” said Blue Jackets Majority Owner John P. McConnell. “As much as it is a showcase for the NHL’s best players, it is also a celebration of hockey fans and having it in Columbus is a testament to the fantastic support of our fans and the strength of Central Ohio as a hockey market.”
Gary Bettman was just as enthused for bringing such an exciting event to Columbus, who happened to host the 2007 National Hockey League entry draft.
“We’re looking forward to bringing our All-Star celebration to Columbus,” said NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman. “The Blue Jackets did a great job of hosting the NHL Draft in 2007, and I have no doubt they will raise the bar even higher when they welcome our All-Star celebration at Nationwide Arena next January.”
We will have more coverage on the 2013 All Star weekend as time progresses.
For now, it’s count down time here in Ottawa as Blue Jackets forward Ryan Johansen is set to participate in the skills challenge as one of 12 rookies. An exciting day for Blue Jackets nation.
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