Summer Coolers – Columbus Blue Jackets

Summer Coolers – Columbus Blue JacketsThe Columbus Blue Jackets have missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs for six consecutive seasons, but there may finally be reasons for optimism. Rick Bowness returns after helping stabilize the club following his midseason arrival, Zach Werenski has recommitted to Columbus, Jet Greaves has emerged as the No. 1 goaltender, and the addition of Valeri Nichushkin could provide a significant offensive boost. Neil Smith and Vic Morren examine whether the Blue Jackets can finally take the next step, how they replace former captain Boone Jenner, and why Adam Fantilli could become one of the defining players—and leaders—of Columbus’ future.

IN THIS EPISODE:[00:00:00] Columbus finishes fifth in the Metropolitan Division with 92 points, 11th in the Eastern Conference and 17th overall, missing the playoffs for a sixth consecutive season.

[00:00:25] The franchise still owns only one playoff series victory in its history—the stunning 2019 sweep of the Presidents’ Trophy-winning Tampa Bay Lightning.

[00:00:45] Columbus remains largely middle-of-the-pack offensively, defensively, on the power play, and on the penalty kill. Vic describes the team as simply “okay” in almost every major area.

[00:01:00] Rick Bowness replaces Dean Evason in January and initially produces significant improvement, particularly in Columbus’ ability to protect leads and avoid giving away points late in games.

[00:01:20] The Blue Jackets finish 10 games above .500 during Bowness’ 37 games, but a disastrous 3-9-1 finish over their final 13 games destroys their playoff hopes.

[00:01:40] Bowness publicly challenges the team after the season, making it clear that changes would be necessary if he returned behind the bench. He is back, setting the stage for an important training camp.

[00:02:00] The offseason initially brings major uncertainty when two important players indicate they may not remain with the organization. Norris Trophy-winning defenseman Zach Werenski eventually reverses course and says he wants to stay and win in Columbus.

[00:02:25] With Boone Jenner leaving for Washington, Werenski could become a candidate for the captaincy as Columbus searches for its next locker-room leader.

[00:02:45] Kirill Marchenko becomes the remaining contract concern. He will be a restricted free agent after the season and has expressed uncertainty about signing another deal with Columbus.

[00:03:00] General Manager Don Waddell makes one of his biggest moves by acquiring Valeri Nichushkin from the Colorado Avalanche for second-, third-, and fifth-round draft picks spread across 2026, 2027, and 2028.

[00:03:25] Neil acknowledges the concerns surrounding Nichushkin’s past but says he has heard the forward is a changed person who is excited about his opportunity in Columbus.