The Columbus Blue Jackets are entering a critical week (Feb. 2–9, 2026) that serves as the final sprint before the NHL pauses for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Here are the key storylines and upcoming schedule for the week.
The “Bowness Bump” & Playoff Push
Under the new leadership of head coach Rick Bowness, the team has surged back into the playoff conversation.
The biggest story in Columbus is the dramatic turnaround under interim head coach Rick Bowness, who replaced Dean Evason in mid-January. Since Bowness took over, the Blue Jackets have gone on a tear, winning eight of their last nine games.
This hot streak has moved them within striking distance (six points behind the Buffalo Sabres) for a playoff spot. If they can sweep this week’s games against the New Jersey Devils and the Chicago Blackhawks, they will head into the Olympic break with serious momentum, forcing the front office to reconsider “selling” at the deadline.
The Charlie Coyle Dilemma
With the trade deadline approaching (post-Olympics), veteran center Charlie Coyle has generated significant buzz. He recently scored a hat trick against Chicago and is playing some of his best hockey.
Coyle is a pending unrestricted free agent (UFA), making him a prime trade target for contenders. However, with the team suddenly winning, management faces a tough decision: trade him for assets (future focus) or keep him as a key piece for a potential playoff run (current focus).
The Final Sprint Before the Olympic Break
The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina begin this week, and the NHL season will pause from Feb. 6 to Feb. 24.
The Blue Jackets need to “empty the tank” in this back-to-back set. Entering the three-week break on a winning note would solidify the locker room’s belief that they are legitimate contenders, whereas a pair of losses could stall their momentum and leave them in “seller” territory when the league resumes in late February.
Blue Jackets Schedule Feb 2 – 9
| Date | Time (ET) | Opponent | Venue | Context |
| Tue, Feb 3 | 7:00 PM | @ New Jersey Devils | Prudential Center | Crucial Metro Division matchup. |
| Wed, Feb 4 | 7:00 PM | vs. Chicago Blackhawks | Nationwide Arena | Final game before the Olympic Break. |
| Fri, Feb 6 | Off | Olympic Break | — | NHL season pauses (Feb 6–24). |
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