The Columbus Blue Jackets are gearing up for the 2025-26 NHL season with several key developments in recent weeks. From roster additions and national television appearances to important dates for training camp and prospect development, here's a comprehensive look at the latest news and rumors surrounding the team.
Roster Updates and Signings
The Blue Jackets have been active in solidifying their roster for the upcoming season. Several players have been signed to contracts, adding depth and competition to the team. Forwards Mikael Pyyhita and Daemon Hunter have been extended to one-year, two-way contracts. Additionally, Hudson Fasching, a 30-year-old forward, has been added on a one-year, two-way contract.
The Blue Jackets have also brought in veteran Brendan Smith on a professional tryout (PTO). Smith, a 36-year-old defenseman, brings a wealth of experience to the team and could compete for a spot on the blue line.
In other roster moves, the Blue Jackets acquired Charlie Coyle and Miles Wood in a trade with the Colorado Avalanche. Isac Lundestrom and Christian Jaros have also been signed, further bolstering the team's depth. Meanwhile, Sean Kuraly, James van Riemsdyk, and Daniil Tarasov have departed from the team.
Dante Fabbro, who found success with Zach Werenski on the first defensive pair after being picked up off waivers from Nashville during the 2024-25 season, was re-signed to a four-year contract. It is expected that Fabbro will remain paired with Werenski on the top pair and will also see time on the power play and penalty kill.
National Television Exposure
The Blue Jackets are set to make six appearances on the NHL's national television schedule for the 2025-26 season. This increased visibility will provide fans across the United States with more opportunities to watch the team.
Here's a breakdown of the Blue Jackets' national TV games: * November 13 vs. Edmonton Oilers (ESPN+/Hulu) * December 9 at Carolina Hurricanes (ESPN+/Hulu) * March 5 vs. Florida Panthers (ESPN) * March 24 at Philadelphia Flyers (ESPN+/Hulu) * March 31 vs. Carolina Hurricanes (ESPN+/Hulu) * April 14 vs. Washington Capitals (ESPN)
Training Camp and Prospect Development
The Blue Jackets' training camp is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, September 18, 2025. Media day is scheduled for Monday, September 15. The camp will run until the pre-season begins and then transition directly into the full pre-season schedule. All practice sessions at the OhioHealth Ice Haus are open to the public.
Prior to training camp, the Blue Jackets held their annual prospects development camp from July 2-5 at the OhioHealth Ice Haus. The camp featured team prospects and players selected in the 2025 NHL Draft.
The Blue Jackets will also participate in the Prospects Challenge in Buffalo from September 11-14, playing three games against the New Jersey Devils, Buffalo Sabres, and Pittsburgh Penguins.
Pre-Season Schedule
The Blue Jackets have a series of pre-season games lined up:
Regular Season Schedule
The Blue Jackets will open their 2025-26 regular season on October 9 against the Nashville Predators. Their first home game is on October 13 against the New Jersey Devils.
