The Columbus Blue Jackets have had an interesting summer, to say the least. From player drama with Zach Werenski and Kirill Marchenko to franchise drama with the releases of radio caller Bob McElligott and team reporter Jeff Svoboda, it hasn't been a fun summer for people who follow the team.
But now, we're just 41 days away from the start of the 2026-27 season, and there are still items on the agenda that need to be crossed off, with none bigger than Adam Fantilli. There's no question he'll be signed and ready for camp, but when?
The Hockey News released its annual yearbook a few weeks ago. In it are breakdowns for every team, prospect rankings, and more. Check it out.
Today though, we're looking at where the experts at THN think the Blue Jackets will finish in the Metro Division.
- Carolina Hurricanes
- Washington Capitals
- Philadelphia Flyers
- New Jersey Devils
- Pittsburgh Penguins
- New York Islanders
- Columbus Blue Jackets
- New York Rangers
Do these standings surprise you at all? Now, while the CBJ didn't get any worse than last year, they didn't necessarily get any better either. And, with the news yesterday that Elvis Merzlikins had to have shoulder surgery, that means Jet Greaves will be in fact be the undisputed #1 goalie heading into the season. Veteran Pheonix Copley will seemingly back Greaves up, and can come in as a very capable back up goaltender.
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