The Columbus Blue Jackets are heading into the 2025-26 season with a clear objective: to build upon the progress made in the previous year and solidify their position as a competitive force in the Eastern Conference. After narrowly missing the playoffs in 2025, the team is focused on making strategic moves to bolster their roster and improve their chances of securing a playoff berth.

Offseason Priorities and Key Acquisitions

General Manager Don Waddell has been actively working to address the team's needs through free agency, trades, and the NHL Draft. A primary focus has been on retaining key veteran players while also adding new talent to the mix.

Defenseman Ivan Provorov, considered by some to be the team's best defensive defenseman, was re-signed to a seven-year contract extension. The Blue Jackets also re-signed defenseman Dante Fabbro to a four-year contract extension. These moves provide stability and experience on the blue line.

To bolster the forward ranks, the Blue Jackets acquired veteran forwards Charlie Coyle and Miles Wood. Additionally, they signed center Isac Lundestrom to a two-year deal, hoping he will fill a defensive role on the fourth line.

Draft Strategy and Prospect Development

The 2025 NHL Draft was an opportunity for the Blue Jackets to add promising young players to their prospect pool. With multiple selections, including two in the first round, the team aimed to secure talent that could contribute to the team's future success.

With the No. 14 pick, Columbus drafted Jackson Smith, a tall, rangy, and athletic defenseman. In the later rounds, the Blue Jackets selected players such as Victor Hedin Raftheim and Jeremy Loranger, adding depth to their prospect pool.

The Blue Jackets' development camp provides a platform for prospects to showcase their skills and learn from the team's coaching staff. Young players like Denton Mateychuk and Gavin Brindley are expected to compete for roster spots and contribute to the team's depth.

Areas for Improvement and Ongoing Needs

While the Blue Jackets have made strides in improving their roster, there are still areas that need attention. Goaltending remains a key area of focus, with the team exploring options to add depth and competition to the position. While Elvis Merzlikins and Jet Greaves are under contract, the team is looking to add a veteran presence to the crease.

The Blue Jackets also need to address potential holes in their forward group. Depending on the development of young players and potential acquisitions, the team may look to add a scoring winger to bolster their second line.

Building a Competitive Roster

With a mix of established veterans and promising young players, the Columbus Blue Jackets are aiming to create a competitive and sustainable roster. The team's management is focused on making smart decisions in free agency and trades, while also prioritizing the development of their prospects.

The Blue Jackets have a strong core of young players, including Adam Fantilli, Kent Johnson and Kirill Marchenko, who are expected to play key roles in the team's success. The development of these players, combined with the contributions of veteran leaders, will be crucial for the team to achieve its goals.

As the Blue Jackets prepare for the 2025-26 season, they are betting on themselves to take the next step and compete for a playoff spot. With a clear vision and a commitment to improvement, the team is focused on building a winning culture in Columbus.