Columbus Blue Jackets Summary

The Columbus Blue Jackets are making notable changes to their coaching staff as they prepare for the upcoming 2026-27 season. According to Deadspin, the team has decided to part ways with assistant coaches Mike Haviland and Scott Ford, as well as video coach Aron Augustitus, all of whom were under contract through the 2025-26 season.

President of hockey operations and general manager Don Waddell stated that these changes were made following end-of-season meetings with head coach Rick Bowness, as the team finished fifth in the Metropolitan Division and missed the playoffs for the sixth consecutive year.

Under Bowness, who took over in January, the team recorded a 21-11-5 record. Meanwhile, goaltender Jet Greaves has been selected to represent Team Canada at the upcoming 2026 IIHF Men's World Championship, marking a significant achievement in his career after a strong season with the Blue Jackets where he posted a 26-19-9 record and a .908 save percentage.

Additionally, the Blue Jackets face a busy offseason with ten restricted free agents needing new contracts, a challenge that presents both opportunities and decisions for the team as they aim to build a competitive roster.

The Cleveland Monsters, the Blue Jackets' AHL affiliate, are also gearing up for the Calder Cup Playoffs, starting their series against the Syracuse Crunch, with players like Jack Williams and Luca Del Bel Belluz leading the charge.