Atkinson returns to Columbus, gets big ovation from Blue Jackets fans

The Columbus Blue Jackets welcomed home an old friend on Thursday.

Forward Cam Atkinson returned to Nationwide Arena as a member of the Philadelphia Flyers on Thursday. He played 10 seasons in Columbus before being traded to the Flyers in July.
The team played a video tribute for Atkinson, which drew a prolonged standing ovation from the crowd.

"That had all the feels. Definitely emotional. Got a little choked up," Atkinson said. "I have so many great memories here and so many friends. This is my home, this is where I'm going to be in the offseason and when I retire. The fans, I couldn't ask for anything better. I was trying to squeak one by this guy Elvis, but he doesn't seem to want to let me get one."
Following the highlight reel with 5:13 left in the first period, Atkinson skated to the center circle with his stick raised in salute to the fans.

During warmups he was greeted with a lighted "Welcome Home" sign among the many displayed by the fans and there were numerous No. 89 Flyers jerseys.
"I could tell right in warmups," Atkinson said. "Everyone was like, 'I've never seen so many signs (in the crowd).' Just so much support. That's why this place is a special place. Anyone who's ever played here can attest to that."

He also got a cheer when he was announced as a starter.
"He's loved here and he should be," Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski said. "He's done a lot for this organization and this city. Cam speaks so highly of this city and organization, his coming back here, we expected that type of ovation for him."
Atkinson, the Blue Jackets' sixth round selection in the 2008 NHL Draft scored 402 points (213 goals, 189 assists) in 627 games for Columbus and is second to Rick Nash in many franchise offensive categories incuding games, goals, points.