CBJ

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.

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

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Selections Remaining

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Positions Covered

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Player Pool

50 available
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Your Columbus Blue Jackets Draft

Pick 1 = their first selection, Pick 2 = second, and so on.

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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

CBJ
40-33-948.8%
Wins40
Losses33
OT Losses9
Points89
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How to Score Points

🎯Exact player, exact slot
+15
Right player, wrong slot
+8
📍Correct position at that slot
+5
No match

💡 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 · 20002025

25y
20251

Jackson Smith

Tri-City Americans(WHL)

D
20256

Victor Hedin Raftheim

Brynas J20(J20 Nationell)

D
20241

Cayden Lindstrom

Medicine Hat Tigers(WHL)

C
20242

Charlie Elick

Brandon Wheat Kings(WHL)

D
20244

Tanner Henricks

Lincoln Stars (USHL)

D