Goloubef Gets Cup Of NHL Coffee

Former Wisconsin defenseman Cody Goloubef became the 22nd former Badger to play in the National Hockey League this season when the Columbus Blue Jacket's called him up for a game on Saturday March 31st against St. Louis.

The former second round pick of Columbus was called up on an emergency basis to cover for an injured John Moore. According to numerous reports, Goloubef didn't find out about his call up until the 10 AM the morning of the game.

Goloubef had to catch a noon flight from Springfield, Massachusetts where his current team the Springfield Falcons was scheduled to play that day, to St. Louis where he was to make his NHL debut. On the way he had to catch a connection in Charlotte.

Apparently the connection was delayed, putting Goloubef behind schedule. Once he arrived in St. Louis, he was so far behind that he got stuck in traffic with fans going to the game.

Normally players arrive at least a few hours in advance for a game. Goloubef got to the Scottrade Center just 25 minutes before game time and missed warm-ups. Goloubef stepped right in anyways and finished the game with a +1 plus/minus rating.

Goloubef has since been returned to the AHL but told me this week it was a pretty awesome experience, even if it was just one game for now.

"It was nice to get a taste (of the NHL)," Goloubef said.

Goloubef, who won a gold medal with Canada at the 2009 World Junior Championships has had an up and down first two professional seasons. Goloubef left Wisconsin after the 2010 Frozen Four, giving up his final season of eligibility in Madison to sign with the Blue Jackets.

A former 37th overall pick in the 2008 draft, Goloubef has recorded 29 points in 98 career games in the AHL.

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