The Columbus Blue Jackets are gearing up for their 25th anniversary season in the NHL, and recent news and rumors provide a glimpse into what fans can expect. From a commemorative logo to the annual Prospects Tournament, there's plenty to discuss as the team prepares for the 2025-26 season.
To celebrate their quarter-century in the league, the Blue Jackets have unveiled a special 25th-anniversary logo. The logo is a dynamic design that pays tribute to the franchise's legacy, the state of Ohio, and the team's deep historical ties. The design incorporates an outline of the state of Ohio, reinforcing the Blue Jackets' position as the sole NHL team in the state. The outline also references the captain's patch from the 2025 NHL Stadium Series. Inside the emblem, the number 25 is displayed in the Blue Jackets' established font, consistent with the team's uniform identity since the 2017-18 season. Silver, the traditional color for 25th anniversaries, gives the number a sleek finish and is found throughout the design. A beveled design adds depth and strength, mirroring the etching on the club's signature goal cannon. The logo also incorporates a metal patina finish, evoking imagery of medals worn by Union Civil War soldiers, a nod to the Blue Jackets' historical inspiration. The team recently installed their 25th Anniversary Logo at center ice in Nationwide Arena. Fans will get their first look at the new logo at center ice during the team's first preseason game Sunday Sept 21 against the St. Louis Blues. Throughout the 2025-26 season, the commemorative mark will be prominently featured, and the team will host dedicated events to celebrate historic moments, legendary players, and the franchise's lasting impact on and off the ice.
The Columbus Blue Jackets are participating in the 2025 Prospects Challenge in Buffalo, held from September 11-15. The tournament provides a platform for young players to showcase their skills and compete against other NHL prospects. The Blue Jackets will compete against the Boston Bruins, Buffalo Sabres, New Jersey Devils, and Pittsburgh Penguins. Trent Vogelhuber, head coach of the Cleveland Monsters, will coach the Blue Jackets' prospects team. The 23-man roster includes eight players drafted by the team. The eight drafted players are Charlie Elick, Evan Gardner, Jordan Dumais, Guillaume Richard, Luca Pinelli, Owen Griffin, Oiva Keskinen, and Tyler Peddle. The team will also send four players who are under entry level deals, all signed as free agents: Caleb MacDonald, Jack Williams, Max McCue and Nolan Lalonde. There are 11 players who are currently free agents, each of whom is looking to make a name for himself at rookie camp.
The Blue Jackets played their opening game of the 2025 Buffalo Prospect's Tournament on Thursday night and lost to the New Jersey Devils. Luca Pinelli wore the captain designation for the Blue Jackets in the game, while Jack Williams and defenseman Guillaume Richard were alternates.
