Columbus Blue Jackets 2023 Season Preview
Last Season Overview
- Record: 40-30-12 (Missed playoffs)
Coaching
- Coach: Rick Bowness
- Record with Columbus: 21-11-5
- Overall Record: 331-419-48-42 over 15 seasons with six teams
Schedule
- Season Opener: October 1 vs. Buffalo
Roster Changes
- Departures:
- C Boone Jenner
- LW Mason Marchment
- Additions:
- RW Valeri Nichushkin
- LW Ryan Lomberg
Goaltending
- Goalies:
- Jet Greaves: 26-19-9, 2.60 GAA, .908 SV%
- Pheonix Copley: 0-1-0, 3.07 GAA, .893 SV%
What to Expect This Season
The Blue Jackets have not reached the playoffs since 2020, and Coach Bowness is advocating for a culture change after a late-season slump (2-8-1). He emphasizes the importance of maintaining performance in crucial months to ensure playoff success.
The team must start strong, as they play seven of their first nine games at home.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Zach Werenski, a Norris Trophy winner, is a key asset alongside other strong defensemen.
- Kirill Marchenko is the team’s leading scorer.
- Jet Greaves has shown promise as a No. 1 goalie, especially with Elvis Merzlikins sidelined.
Weaknesses:
- Special teams have struggled; they ranked among the lowest for penalty killing and power play efficiency last season.
- Backup goaltending is a concern, as Copley or Cam Talbot will fill in until Merzlikins returns.
Players to Watch
- Zach Werenski: Notable for his achievements, being part of an elite group of players with both an Olympic gold medal and a Norris Trophy.
- Valeri Nichushkin: Adds depth and aims to improve the power play, expected to see more ice time this season.
- Charlie Coyle: A versatile two-way center who is instrumental for the second or third line.
- Ryan Lomberg: Brings toughness and grit to the lineup, complementing players like Mathieu Olivier.
As the new season approaches, the Blue Jackets aim to turn around their recent shortcomings and return to playoff contention.
