After a costly first-period turnover Tuesday, Blue Jackets defenseman Kris Russell retreated to his bench but not his shell.

Those wielding power within the Jackets organization were quick to make the distinction.

Russell didn't allow the mistake, which led to a short-handed Chicago goal, affect the rest of his night. The 22-year-old, who has struggled with his confidence, rebounded to score a goal and play a solid all-around game.

"You have to play with a short memory," said general manager Scott Howson, echoing coach Ken Hitchcock. "That's sometimes hard to do for a young player. You can see the growth in his game."

Russell has supplied dynamic back-to-back performances after being a healthy scratch in five of the previous six games. He has four points (two goals, two assists) in the past two games while jumping into plays, using his speed effectively and making strong first passes out of the Jackets' zone.

"He is maturing as a person and his game is maturing," Hitchcock said. "Mistakes don't bother him as much and he's quicker to get back in the saddle again. Those are things you like and things you want to see in a young player. You have to play with an inner arrogance as a young player. Those are the things we talk to him about all the time."

Russell has a massive opportunity in front of him. With defenseman Rostislav Klesla (stomach and groin tears) out for at least six weeks, Russell can cement a spot in the lineup with assertive play.

In the past two games, Russell has played 23 minutes, 6 seconds and 21 minutes, 22 seconds, respectively, a sign of Hitchcock's growing trust in his undersized defenseman.

U-S-A, U-S-A, U-S-A

Forward R.J. Umberger should have ample motivation for a big game against Toronto tonight.

Umberger is fighting for a spot on the U.S. Olympic team, which is expected to be named at the end of the month. Team USA general manager Brian Burke will be in attendance, as he is also the Maple Leafs general manager.

Umberger, a native of Plum, Pa., has five goals and five assists in the past seven games.

"I would get up for it if I was a player," Hitchcock said. "You know who's watching, especially in December. They are watching every shift. R.J. knows that. He's playing very well and he's a horse we can ride right now."

Slap shots

Blue Jackets prospects John Moore, an American defenseman, and Nikita Filatov, a Russian forward, have been named to the preliminary rosters of their respective world junior teams. The tournament is Dec. 26-Jan. 5 in Saskatchewan. Blue Jackets forward Andrew Murray (shoulder) could return to the lineup tonight, but more likely Saturday against Colorado.

treed@dispatch.com