The Columbus Blue Jackets are set to wrap up their 25th Anniversary Celebration with a bang on Saturday, March 21, as they take on the Seattle Kraken at Nationwide Arena. The puck drops at 5 p.m.
ET, but fans will want to be in their seats early for a special pregame ceremony. The team will honor five former Blue Jackets who have been instrumental in the franchise's journey: Rick Nash, Andrew Cassels, Lyle Odelein, Jack Johnson, and Fedor Tyutin.
Season ticket holders are in for a treat with an exclusive luncheon featuring these alumni, followed by an autograph session on the concourse starting at 4 p.m. The spotlight will be on these legends during an on-ice ceremony before the game kicks off.
Rick Nash, the first overall pick by Columbus in the 2002 NHL Draft, is a name that resonates deeply with Blue Jackets fans. Over nine seasons, Nash tallied an impressive 289 goals and remains the franchise leader in goals, points, and power play goals.
His leadership as captain led the team to their first Stanley Cup Playoff appearance in 2009. A six-time NHL All-Star, Nash's No. 61 was retired by the Blue Jackets, a testament to his lasting impact.
Now, as the director of player personnel/development, he continues to shape the team's future.
Andrew Cassels joined the Blue Jackets as a free agent in 2002 and quickly became a key player. Known for his playmaking abilities, Cassels racked up 94 points in 137 games and served as an alternate captain.
His five-point game against Calgary in 2003 remains a franchise highlight. Post-retirement, Cassels has been active in coaching, contributing to the AAA Blue Jackets system and the club's Learn To Play program.
Lyle Odelein, the Blue Jackets' first team captain, brought grit and determination to the ice. Selected in the 2000 Expansion Draft, Odelein's leadership set the tone for the fledgling franchise.
He played 146 games with Columbus, leaving a mark with his defensive prowess and physical play. A Stanley Cup champion with Montreal, Odelein's career spanned 16 NHL seasons.
Jack Johnson, acquired from Los Angeles in 2012, became a cornerstone of the Blue Jackets' defense. Known for his durability and leadership, Johnson played 486 games over two stints with the team.
He led the team in ice time for four straight seasons and reached the milestone of 1,200 NHL games in 2024. A Stanley Cup winner with Colorado, Johnson's legacy is cemented in NHL history.
Fedor Tyutin, a stalwart on the Blue Jackets' blue line, was acquired from the New York Rangers in 2008. Over eight seasons, Tyutin played 553 games, ranking high in franchise history for defensemen in assists and points.
His international experience with Russia added to his reputation as a reliable and skilled defenseman. Since retiring, Tyutin has stayed connected to the organization, contributing to the development of young talent.
This game on March 21 is more than just a matchup against the Kraken; it's a celebration of the players and moments that have defined the Blue Jackets' first 25 years. Fans can look forward to a night of nostalgia and excitement as the team honors its past while looking ahead to the future.