The Columbus Blue Jackets now have the outline of their next TV setup, even if the full picture still isn’t clear.
On Tuesday morning, the NHL announced that the Blue Jackets will be part of a centralized production plan beginning in the 2026-27 season. Columbus is one of four clubs included in the first wave, alongside the Carolina Hurricanes, Minnesota Wild and St.
Louis Blues. The league said more teams could be added before the season starts.
The NHL said its centralized production group will also help with distribution and monetization of regional game broadcasts. In the league’s words, that is meant to create “more economic opportunities for Clubs and greater flexibility with distribution partners.”
The Blue Jackets followed with their own release confirming the plan. What still hasn’t been locked down is where those games will actually air, and that information will come later.
“We are excited about working with the NHL and its award-winning production team to continue delivering the best Blue Jackets coverage to our fans,” said Marc Gregory, Blue Jackets’ Vice President of Business Intelligence & Broadcasting. “This partnership allows us to leverage the league’s industry-leading production resources and storytelling capabilities to bring the game closer to our fans than ever before. We are continuing to work on our distribution platforms and look forward to announcing those details in the near future.”
The new setup brings a bigger production footprint with it. According to the release, fans can expect comprehensive pregame, intermission and postgame coverage with dedicated producers and on-site hosts for both home and road games. The league also pointed to expanded storytelling through player features, NHL EDGE content and integrated digital and sponsorship opportunities.
On the game side, the package includes state-of-the-art graphics, improved replay tools and more camera angles, including handheld, robotic and point-of-view cameras. The NHL also said the operation will come with high-quality mobile production units, experienced technical crews, engineering support and full integration with league and arena operations.
For now, the biggest unanswered question is distribution. The Hurricanes and Wild have already said they will launch their own networks, but the Blue Jackets’ path is still being worked out. It’s possible Columbus could follow the model used by the Cleveland Guardians and Cincinnati Reds, each with its own network and channel.
That uncertainty also leaves the talent picture open. Broadcasters such as Steve Mears, Jody Shelley and Bob McElligott are employed by the Blue Jackets, but the hosts and analysts on the pre- and postgame show were previously employed by FanDuel. Whether everyone returns to the same roles remains to be seen.
What is clear is that the framework is now in place for how Blue Jackets games will be produced starting in 2026-27. Depending on how the broadcasts are ultimately distributed, there is still a chance some games could be available over the air, which would make them easier for fans to access.
More details are expected later.
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