Blue Jackets Rumors: Columbus Linked To 4 Goaltenders This Off-Season

The Columbus Blue Jackets’ late-season struggles exposed a critical weakness: unreliable goaltending. Despite moments of promise and offensive firepower, inconsistent performances between the pipes ultimately dashed their playoff hopes. 

Now, as reported by The Athletic’s Aaron Portzline, the franchise appears poised for a major shakeup in net—sparking a flurry of offseason speculation.

Elvis Merzlikins showed minor improvement from last year but failed to provide the steady presence needed for a postseason run. With an .890 save percentage and a 3.24 GAA (as of April 6), he ranks among the NHL’s least effective starters. 

Moving his $5.4 million AAV contract (running through 2026-27) won’t be easy, leaving a buyout as a possible—albeit costly—solution. Yet, with the team desperate for stability, the financial hit may be necessary.

Scarce Options in Free Agency and Trade Market

The upcoming free-agent class lacks slam-dunk solutions. Jake Allen, Dan Vladar, Ilya Samsonov, and Frederik Andersen are among the potential targets, but each carries risks—Allen’s inconsistency, Vladar’s need for a fresh start, Samsonov’s erratic play, and Andersen’s injury history.

A trade might be the Blue Jackets’ best path forward. GM Don Waddell should aggressively pursue deals, possibly offering draft capital or prospects to teams with excess goaltending depth. The challenge? Finding a true starter without overpaying.

Behind Merzlikins, neither Daniil Tarasov nor Jet Greaves inspired enough confidence from head coach Dean Evason, further highlighting the urgency for an upgrade. This isn’t just about filling a roster spot—it’s about securing a game-changer who can anchor the defense and elevate the team’s performance.

Time is of the essence. Columbus’s offseason success hinges on solving their goaltending crisis, making the next few months pivotal for the franchise’s direction.

 Image - Marc DesRosiers-Imagn