With the NHL’s Olympic roster freeze set to lift in less than a week, the trade market is about to heat up - and for the Columbus Blue Jackets, that timing couldn’t be more intriguing. Just a few weeks ago, this team looked like a lock to be sellers at the deadline.
But now? After ripping off 10 wins in their last 11 games, the Blue Jackets are suddenly right in the thick of the playoff conversation.
So what does GM Don Waddell do now?
That’s the million-dollar question. Because Columbus isn’t just playing better - they’re playing inspired hockey.
They’ve tightened things up defensively, they’re getting timely goals, and there’s a clear energy shift under interim head coach Rick Bowness. Heading into the Olympic break, they were riding a seven-game win streak and sitting just four points out of a playoff spot.
That’s not nothing.
Waddell has some big decisions to make in the coming days, and while re-signing pending free agents will be part of the equation, the larger question is this: What direction does he take at the trade deadline?
Let’s break down the four main paths in front of him.
Option 1: Stay the course - build for the future
This is the conservative approach. Ignore the hot streak, stick to the original plan, and keep building toward long-term success.
It’s not a crazy idea. After all, it wasn’t long ago that this team was spiraling.
And there’s always the possibility that this surge is just a “new coach” bump - the kind of short-term spark you often see after a big change behind the bench. But here’s the thing: Waddell didn’t fire his head coach just to keep spinning the wheels on a rebuild.
That move signaled urgency. Direction.
A desire to change the trajectory of this group.
So while the future is always a factor, it’s hard to imagine Waddell turning around and selling off veterans for picks and prospects right now. This team has earned a look at something more.
Option 2: Go big - load up for a playoff run
Now we’re talking.
The Blue Jackets are one of the hottest teams in the league right now. They’ve gone from bottom-dwellers to playoff hopefuls in a matter of weeks. The energy is different, the results are there, and you can feel the confidence growing in that locker room.
So why not reward that?
Waddell has assets to work with - draft picks, prospects, flexibility. If the right player becomes available, he could absolutely make a move to strengthen this roster for a postseason push.
But there’s a key caveat: Columbus isn’t likely to pay a premium for a rental. Any addition would need to have term - a player who can contribute now and be part of the plan moving forward.
This isn’t about mortgaging the future for a one-shot run. It’s about finding the right piece who fits the timeline.
And if that player’s out there? Don’t be surprised if Waddell pulls the trigger.
Two options down, two more to go. The Blue Jackets have momentum, cap space, and a front office that’s clearly not afraid to make bold moves. The next few weeks could define not just this season - but the next several years in Columbus.