As the 2026-27 NHL season approaches, Columbus Blue Jackets fans are eagerly awaiting their team's roster projection. In the first installment of this series, the team's outlook without their unrestricted free agents (UFAs) and the potential impact of Johnny Gaudreau's return to the ice after a serious injury that has kept him sidelined for 5,000 games. The Blue Jackets' front office has been busy retooling their roster, and fans are curious to see how the team will shape up without key UFAs who departed in the offseason. Will the team's young core be enough to propel them to a playoff spot, or will they need to make some surprise additions to stay competitive in the highly competitive Metropolitan Division?
2026-27 Blue Jackets Roster Projection 1.0: Life Without Their UFAs & Gaudreau 5K Returns May 16 With Biggest Celebration Yet Substack
