Predicting power play success in the NHL is always a tricky proposition, as team chemistry, coaching strategies, and player health can significantly impact performance. However, as the 2025-26 season approaches, it's worthwhile to analyze the Columbus Blue Jackets' potential power play units based on their projected roster and player skill sets.
Projected Roster and Key Players
Based on recent projections, the Blue Jackets' forward lines for the 2025-26 season could look something like this:
- Dmitri Voronkov – Sean Monahan – Kirill Marchenko
- Boone Jenner – Adam Fantilli – Kent Johnson
- Yegor Chinakhov – Charlie Coyle – Cole Sillinger
- Miles Wood – Isac Lundestrom – Mathieu Olivier
On defense, potential pairings include Zach Werenski – Dante Fabbro, Denton Mateychuk – Ivan Provorov, and Damon Severson – Erik Gudbranson.
Key players for the power play will likely include forwards Adam Fantilli, Kirill Marchenko, Sean Monahan, Kent Johnson, and Zach Werenski on defense. The team has also added Charlie Coyle, Miles Wood, and Isac Lundestrom to bring depth to the lineup.
Potential Power Play Unit Formations
With the above roster in mind, here are some possible power play unit configurations for the Blue Jackets in 2025-26:
- Unit 1: Zach Werenski (D), Adam Fantilli (C), Kirill Marchenko (W), Sean Monahan (W), Kent Johnson (W)
- Unit 2: Damon Severson (D), Boone Jenner (C), Yegor Chinakhov (W), Charlie Coyle (W), Cole Sillinger (W)
Analysis and Considerations
- Unit 1: This unit features a blend of skill, shooting ability, and playmaking. Werenski's offensive prowess from the blue line is crucial, while Fantilli's hockey sense and net-front presence could create opportunities. Marchenko's scoring touch and Johnson's playmaking abilities add further dimensions. Monahan, with his experience, can provide stability and contribute in key situations.
- Unit 2: This unit offers a more balanced approach with a focus on puck possession and generating chances through hard work. Severson can provide a steady presence on the blue line, while Jenner's leadership and Coyle's two-way play would be valuable. Chinakhov and Sillinger add scoring potential and the willingness to go to the dirty areas.
Factors Influencing Power Play Success
Several factors could influence the Blue Jackets' power play performance in 2025-26:
- Chemistry: The ability of the players to develop chemistry and understand each other's tendencies will be critical. Consistent line combinations and focused practice time will be essential.
- Coaching: The coaching staff's ability to design effective power play strategies and make necessary adjustments will play a significant role. A focus on puck movement, player positioning, and exploiting opponent weaknesses is key.
- Special Teams Coaching: The influence of special team coaches can not be understated as being key to power play success.
- Goaltending: A reliable power play can provide momentum and confidence to the entire team, especially if the goaltending is solid.
- Discipline: Staying out of the penalty box and drawing penalties from opponents will be crucial for maximizing power play opportunities.
- Player Development: The continued development of young players like Fantilli, Johnson and Mateychuk will be vital for the long-term success of the Blue Jackets' power play.
Conclusion
The Columbus Blue Jackets have the potential to ice competitive power play units in 2025-26. With a mix of skill, experience, and emerging talent, they could improve their power play ranking. However, success will depend on factors such as player chemistry, coaching strategies, and overall team discipline. It will be interesting to see how these units evolve as the season approaches.
