Columbus Blue Jackets Mock Draft
National Hockey League Mock Draft • 2026 Season
Columbus Blue Jackets Draft Analysis
The Columbus Blue Jackets enter this draft with a clear need for both offensive dynamism and defensive stability. After a season marked by inconsistency, the team must address the gaps in their forward ranks, particularly at center, while also enhancing their defensive corps to support their young goaltending duo. With key veterans potentially aging or moving on, the Blue Jackets should prioritize prospects who can contribute to their long-term vision and add depth in both scoring and reliability.
Gavin McKenna stands out as an ideal fit for the Blue Jackets, given his elite offensive talent and ability to drive play from the center position, which has been a struggle for the team. His knack for creating scoring opportunities while navigating tight spaces could provide the offensive spark Columbus has lacked. Additionally, Keaton Verhoeff offers franchise potential on the blue line, boasting a combination of size, skill, and strategic intelligence that would solidify the team's defense for years to come. Both players not only fill immediate needs but also align with the Blue Jackets' focus on building a competitive, well-rounded roster.
How It Works
Pick your players
Select up to 5 players you think the Columbus Blue Jackets will draft, in the order you expect them to be picked.
Submit before draft day
Lock in your predictions and share them on social. Your entry is saved to the public leaderboard.
Get scored automatically
After the official National Hockey League Mock Draft Draft, every submission is scored. Exact player at the exact slot earns 15 pts, right player in the wrong slot earns 8, and matching the position group earns 5.
No account required. Scores are calculated after the real draft concludes. Full scoring guide →
Or create a private league →Who do you want the Columbus Blue Jackets to take?
Pick your ideal Columbus Blue Jackets draft and share it on social before draft day. Want to compete? Enter your picks in the Columbus Blue Jackets draft contest and see how you stack up.
Picks Selected
0of 5 max
Selections Remaining
5
Positions Covered
0
Player Pool
50 availableYour Columbus Blue Jackets Draft
Pick 1 = their first selection, Pick 2 = second, and so on.
How the Columbus Blue Jackets Mock Draft Works
Predict the players you think the Jackets will select in the National Hockey League Draft, in the exact order you expect them to be picked.
You can select up to 5 players from the prospect pool. Add your reasoning for each pick to make your case, then share your Columbus Blue Jackets mock draft on social media before draft day.
Ready to compete? Lock in your picks to enter the Columbus Blue Jackets draft contest. After the official draft, every submission is scored and ranked on the public leaderboard the most accurate predictions win.
2024-25 Record
Columbus Blue Jackets

How to Score Points
💡 Casual fan?
You don't need to know every player. Predicting the positions a team needs still scores!
Scores calculated after the official draft.
Draft History
120 picks · 2000–2025
Jackson Smith
Tri-City Americans(WHL)
Victor Hedin Raftheim
Brynas J20(J20 Nationell)
Cayden Lindstrom
Medicine Hat Tigers(WHL)
Charlie Elick
Brandon Wheat Kings(WHL)
Tanner Henricks
Lincoln Stars (USHL)