The Columbus Blue Jackets have concluded their 2025 preseason, posting a 2-5-0 record. While the wins and losses don't tell the whole story, several key takeaways emerged as the team prepares for its 25th anniversary season. The preseason served as a crucial period for the coaching staff to evaluate player performance, experiment with different line combinations, and fine-tune strategies before the regular season kicks off against the Nashville Predators.
Offensive Consistency
One of the main talking points coming out of the preseason was the team's offensive output. Columbus scored just 14 goals in seven games. Mathieu Olivier led the team with three goals. While a low goal total can raise concerns, it's important to consider the context of preseason hockey. The Blue Jackets never iced their projected regular-season lineup at any point during the seven games. Key players like Kirill Marchenko, Zach Werenski, and Sean Monahan were often held out of the lineup for rest or precautionary reasons.
Roster Battles and Player Development
With a large portion of the roster already set, the preseason provided an opportunity for players on the bubble to make their case for a spot on the team. According to a report, most roster spots were already accounted for. Several players stood out, including Luca Del Bel Belluz, who scored two goals but was ultimately assigned to the Cleveland Monsters. The coaching staff emphasized the importance of evaluating young players and assessing their readiness for the NHL.
Line Combinations and Player Chemistry
Throughout training camp and the preseason, the coaching staff experimented with various line combinations to find the right chemistry and balance. Some potentially stable top lines emerged. One combination featured Dmitri Voronkov, Sean Monahan, and Kirill Marchenko, while another showcased Boone Jenner, Adam Fantilli, and Kent Johnson. The established defensive pairing of Zach Werenski and Dante Fabbro remained intact.
Overall, the Blue Jackets' 2025 preseason provided valuable insights into the team's strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. While the team's record wasn't ideal, the coaching staff used the exhibition games to evaluate players, experiment with line combinations, and prepare for the challenges of the upcoming regular season. With the season opener on the horizon, the Blue Jackets will look to build upon the lessons learned in the preseason and make a strong push toward playoff contention.
