The Columbus Blue Jackets are officially in reset mode. With a new voice behind the bench and the trade deadline looming, this week could offer a clearer glimpse into the franchise’s short- and long-term direction.
From a coaching shakeup to a potential goalie shift, and trade rumors swirling around the captain, there’s no shortage of storylines in Columbus right now. Let’s break it all down.
A New Chapter: Rick Bowness Takes the Reins
The biggest change came earlier this month when the Blue Jackets parted ways with Dean Evason and brought in veteran coach Rick Bowness. Bowness, known for his steady hand and defensive acumen, steps into a locker room that’s been searching for consistency all season.
In the early going, there’s been a noticeable uptick in structure-especially on the defensive side of the puck. The team isn’t magically fixed overnight, but there’s a clearer identity starting to form. That’s been most evident in the way the blue line is operating, and it’s giving fans a reason to believe that things might be trending in the right direction, even if the standings don’t show it yet.
Goaltending Battle Heating Up
One of the most intriguing developments under Bowness has been the brewing goaltending competition. Jet Greaves has quietly put together a strong case for the starting job, outplaying veteran Elvis Merzlikins statistically over the course of the season. Greaves has looked confident, composed, and ready for a bigger role.
But don’t count out Merzlikins just yet. Since the coaching change, he’s rattled off two straight wins and looks like a player with something to prove.
Whether this is a short-term boost or a sign of a true resurgence remains to be seen, but the crease is suddenly one of the most competitive spots on the roster. And with the trade deadline approaching, Columbus may have a decision to make about who their go-to guy is moving forward.
Trade Deadline Looms: Sellers or Strategic Buyers?
With the Blue Jackets near the bottom of the Metropolitan Division, the expectation around the league is that they’ll be sellers at the deadline. All eyes are on captain Boone Jenner, who’s reportedly drawing interest from contenders looking to add grit, leadership, and two-way reliability down the middle. Jenner’s value on the market is high, and if Columbus is serious about retooling, moving a piece like that could bring back significant future assets.
There’s also been light chatter about the team potentially buying low on certain players to aid the rebuild, but the more likely scenario is that they’ll look to flip veteran pieces for picks and prospects. The next couple of weeks should tell us a lot about how aggressive GM Jarmo Kekäläinen plans to be.
Bright Spots on the Blue Line
Even amid the team’s struggles, the defense has been a legitimate reason for optimism. Zach Werenski is playing some of the best hockey of his career, anchoring the back end with elite-level play that’s drawing Norris Trophy buzz. His advanced metrics are off the charts, and he’s doing it all-logging big minutes, driving offense, and shutting down top lines.
Then there’s Denton Mateychuk, who has been nothing short of a revelation. The young blueliner has stepped into a significant role and looked like a future cornerstone. His poise, puck movement, and hockey IQ have stood out, and he’s making it clear he belongs in the NHL right now-not someday.
Injury Report
Injuries continue to test the team’s depth. Mason Marchment, Miles Wood, and Isac Lundestrom are all on Injured Reserve, while Mateychuk and Dante Fabbro are listed as day-to-day. On the bright side, Erik Gudbranson is back in the lineup after a long absence, bringing some much-needed physicality and veteran presence to the blue line.
Upcoming Schedule: A Crucial Homestand
The Blue Jackets are in the middle of a key stretch at home with four straight games at Nationwide Arena. Here’s what’s on tap:
- Jan. 20 (Tuesday): vs.
Ottawa Senators - 7:00 PM
- **Jan.
22 (Thursday):** vs. Dallas Stars - 7:00 PM
- Jan. 24 (Saturday): vs.
Tampa Bay Lightning - 7:00 PM
- **Jan.
26 (Monday):** vs. Los Angeles Kings - 7:00 PM
It’s a tough slate featuring playoff-caliber opponents, but it’s also a chance for Columbus to test its mettle under Bowness and potentially build some momentum heading into February.
This week feels like a turning point for the Blue Jackets. Whether it’s the emergence of young talent, the shakeup in net, or the looming trade decisions, the franchise is clearly at a crossroads. The results on the ice matter, but so does the bigger picture-and right now, Columbus is trying to chart a path forward that fans can believe in.