The Columbus Blue Jackets have released a projected lineup for the 2026‑27 season, outlining how new talent and veteran experience will intertwine on the ice.
New faces on the ice
Among the newcomers, forward Valeri Nichushkin brings a proven scoring touch, while rugged winger Ryan Lomberg adds depth and physicality to the lower lines.
However, the team will be without centre Isac Lundeström for the first couple of months, giving younger players a chance to step into larger roles early in the schedule.
Coach Bowness’s flexibility
Head coach Rick Bowness now has a broader palette of wingers to work with, allowing him to experiment with line combinations and fine‑tune the most effective units during the preseason.
The club’s ample cap space also positions it to match any offer sheet for restricted free agent Adam Fantilli, who remains unsigned and could attract interest from other teams.
Veteran changes
The departure of Boone Jenner, the longest‑tenured Blue Jackets player, to the Washington Capitals as a free agent marks a significant shift, elevating defenceman Zach Werenski to the role of the team’s most experienced veteran.
Jenner’s exit also opens up roster spots that could be filled by emerging prospects eager to prove themselves at the NHL level.
Coaching reshuffle
Trent Vogelhuber’s promotion to an assistant coach spot on the NHL staff creates a vacancy in the AHL Cleveland affiliate, where Nick Bootland will step in to fill the gap.
Across the organization, 13 prospects are currently spread over 12 different NCAA programs, underscoring the depth of talent the Blue Jackets are nurturing for future call‑ups.