Given the task definition and input, reply with output. In this task, you will be given a passage to read. A fill in the blank question will be given to you.  Your answer should fit the blank appropriately.

 Since being founded as an expansion team , the Blue Jackets have played in the Central Division of the Western Conference . Division rivals Chicago Blackhawks , Detroit Red Wings , Nashville Predators and St. Louis Blues , all made the playoff during the 2011 – 12 season , which helped Columbus finish 36 points behind fourth place Chicago and 44 points out of first . Divisions : CE – Central , NW – Northwest , PA – Pacific bold - qualified for playoffs , y – Won division , p – Won Presidents ' Trophy ( best record in NHL ) fill in the blank  :  Since being founded as an expansion team , the Blue Jackets have played in the Central Division of the Western __________________ . 

 Conference 