The recent announcement that the Tampa Bay Lightning will retire Vincent Lecavalier’s jersey got me thinking: Who will be the first Blue Jacket to see his jersey hang in the rafters at Nationwide Arena?
A few factors obviously play into the decision to retire a jersey:
- Length of time served with team
- Statistical achievements and records held
- Significant moments in team history
- Community image and contributions
- Embodiment of team culture and values
The first retired Blue Jacket may need that last point in his favor, though not necessarily.