Blue Jackets' Bobrovsky, Foligno off to worlds

Sergei Bobrovsky and Nick Foligno's seasons aren't over yet.

The Columbus Blue Jackets teammates will represent their countries at the IIHF World Championship, writes the The Columbus Dispatch's Aaron Portzline.

Foligno, Columbus' captain, will suit up for the United States, while Bobrovsky will man the crease for Russia.

"It's just nice to continue your season," Foligno said. "But I sure don't want to get used to have our (NHL) seasons end in April."

Bobrovsky, also on Russia's World Cup squad, was limited to only 36 starts this season, so he wants to play.

"I have had lots of time off in the season. Unfortunate, yes," he said. "So I will go. It's always great to represent your country. And to play in front of your own fans, of course, is special."

The tournament runs May 6-22 in Moscow and St. Petersburg.

Forward Brandon Saad declined his invitation from the United States. The former Chicago Blackhawks forward has often been busy this time of year, and will be participating in the upcoming World Cup on the Under-23 North American team.