The Columbus Blue Jackets have flipped the script in a big way. After a rocky start to the season, they’ve surged back into the playoff conversation with an 8-1-0 run under new head coach Rick Bowness.
It's not just a hot streak-it’s a sign that this team, once written off, might be gearing up for a legitimate postseason push. And with the trade deadline looming, the Jackets are suddenly in a position to add rather than sell.
A big reason for the turnaround? The blue line has stabilized, and the return of Erik Gudbranson and Denton Mateychuk from injury has played a major role in that.
The defense, once a soft spot, now looks like a strength. And in Mateychuk’s case, it’s not just about being back-it's about finally being unleashed.
Denton Mateychuk: A Breakout in the Making
Mateychuk has been turning heads lately, and not just because of his draft pedigree. Taken 12th overall in 2022, the talent was always there-but under former head coach Dean Evason, his game never quite fit the system. That’s changed under Bowness.
In recent games, especially against the Blackhawks and Blues, Mateychuk has looked every bit like the high-end prospect the Blue Jackets hoped they were getting. He’s not just surviving out there-he’s driving play.
What stands out most is his puck-moving ability. Mateychuk has a natural instinct for pushing the pace, and Bowness’ system gives him the green light to do just that.
The coach encourages a four-man rush, and that gives Mateychuk the freedom to jump into the play without leaving the back end exposed. It’s a system tailor-made for a player with his skill set.
His goal against St. Louis was a perfect example-he navigated the blue line with poise, opened up a lane, and got the puck through traffic.
That’s not just skill, that’s vision and confidence. And it’s exactly what Columbus needs more of from the back end.
A Complement to Werenski, Not a Replacement
Right now, Zach Werenski is still the guy on the Blue Jackets’ blue line. He’s the anchor, the leader, and the player who logs the tough minutes. But what Mateychuk brings is a second wave of offense, a dynamic presence that can take pressure off Werenski and keep the attack rolling even when the top unit is off the ice.
Mateychuk’s ceiling is high-possibly Werenski-level high someday-but he doesn’t need to be that guy just yet. What he is right now is a spark plug, and that’s exactly what this team needs as it pushes for a playoff spot.
Neutral Zone Aggression: A Perfect Fit
Defensively, Mateychuk is still growing, especially in his own zone. But what he’s already doing well is owning the neutral zone.
Bowness wants his defensemen to step up early, cut off plays before they develop, and force turnovers at the blue line. That aggressive style suits Mateychuk perfectly.
His anticipation is sharp, and he’s not afraid to take risks-because in this system, smart risks are rewarded. He’s learning how to shut things down before they become dangerous, and that’s raising his defensive floor while letting his offensive instincts shine.
Looking Ahead: Building the Blue Line of the Future
If the Blue Jackets are serious about building a contender, Mateychuk has to be a foundational piece. He and Werenski could form one of the more dynamic left-side duos in the league-two high-end skaters who can move the puck, jump into the rush, and still handle their responsibilities in the defensive zone.
And there’s more help on the way. Jackson Smith, the 14th overall pick in 2025, is currently developing at Penn State and brings a similar profile-left-handed, mobile, and offensively gifted. The future of the Blue Jackets’ blue line is starting to take shape, and it’s looking fast, aggressive, and skilled.
The Bowness Effect
There’s no doubt that Rick Bowness has had a major impact on this group. His system has unlocked players like Mateychuk, who now looks like a true difference-maker instead of just a promising name on the depth chart. For a team that’s long been searching for identity, this version of the Blue Jackets is starting to look like something real.
If Mateychuk keeps trending upward, and if Columbus can add a piece or two at the deadline, this team could be more than just a feel-good story. They might just be a problem in the Eastern Conference playoff race.