Obviously my first job is being ready for the Blue Jackets, and I knew if I got dinged again with the Olympics approaching it could cost me. So that's obviously in the back of your mind. You just want to take care of it and stay on top of it.

The guys always remind me of that. I wasn't ready. I think it was more physical but that was a long time ago. I learned a lot. That was the first time ever in my career in any sport that a lot of finger pointing came my way. Coach Cowher took me out of the game and that was something new for me but that woke me up. That day probably made me become a professional.

We really needed Drew to step up. Obviously, Drew knew a lot was on his shoulders, and for a first conference start, he did a fantastic job.

We kind of knew (Savannah) would be the first. I was the only one up there ready to deliver.

I still really like it. I knew I had to do a lot to get ready for this season. I started skating in July, which I never do. I skated a little more than usual in August. I still love this game.

With the (first round) bye, they (Big Blue) hadn't played in nine days and I knew they would come out aggressively. They just play so hard and so physically.