Weird Scheduling Quirk Could Benefit The Columbus Blue Jackets

The Columbus Blue Jackets didn't have a very good night against the Utah Mammoth last Saturday night. 

They looked out of sync, took too many penalties, and couldn't keep up with Utah. Head Coach Rick Bowness mentioned after the game that they were going to have plenty of practice time between now and October 9th to get some work in.

One could argue that the first two to four games are just an extension of the preseason. Unfortunately these games count, so they'll need to figure it out. 

When we first looked at the 2026-27 schedule, we had to look at it sideways because the Blue Jackets had a full 5-day break between games 3 and 4. After what we saw on Saturday, it seems the NHL did the CBJ a favor. They also have two separate three-day breaks sandwiched in between home games. 

The Ottawa Senators have played only one game so far, but by the time the CBJ plays their next game, the Sens will have played 4 games. 

When the Jackets' next opponent, the Pens, roll into town on Friday, they will have played 4 games, including 2 this week. 

The Blue Jackets will have 3 full practices this week: Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. They were off on Sunday and will have Wednesday off as well. They will also have a morning skate on Friday morning before the Penguins game. The Blue Jackets must take full advantage of these practices and iron out the wrinkles before the schedule starts coming fast and furious. 

They play 5 of the first 6 games at home, 7 of 9 at home, before taking to the road at the end of the month. Rick Bowness should have them ready to go. 

Next Up For Columbus: The Blue Jackets take on the Pittsburgh Penguins next Friday at Nationwide Arena. 

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