Boone Jenner accepts fourth-line role to support Blue Jackets' playoff push

Boone Jenner is centering the Columbus Blue Jackets' fourth line and has averaged about 14 minutes per game since the move; the team is chasing a wild-card spot during a strong run under coach Rick Bowness.

Boone Jenner has moved to the Columbus Blue Jackets' fourth line and is centering that trio as the club pursues a playoff berth. Coach Rick Bowness spoke with Jenner before making the lineup change and says he plans to get Jenner roughly 14 to 16 minutes per night. Jenner remains the team's captain and says he will do "whatever is asked" to help the Blue Jackets. The team has shown notable improvement since Bowness was hired on Jan. 12. Recent developments: - Jenner is centering the fourth line for a seventh straight game. - Bowness said he expects Jenner to see about 14–16 minutes per night; Jenner has averaged 13:54 per game since moving to the fourth line. - Jenner continues to play on the penalty kill, can join the second power-play unit, and takes important faceoffs. - The Blue Jackets have gone 17-2-4 since Jan. 11 and are one point behind the Detroit Red Wings and Boston Bruins for a wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference. - Bowness praised Jenner's character and competitiveness and said other teams had sought Jenner in past trade talks. Summary: Jenner's willingness to accept a lower-line role has been framed as part of the team's deeper and more balanced lineup. Columbus has three forward lines that can both score and play defensively, and the club enters a home game against the New York Rangers still chasing a wild-card position. The next immediate step is the team's upcoming game at Nationwide Arena.