Blue Jackets Prospects Challenge 2025-26: A Preview of the Team's Upcoming Season
The Columbus Blue Jackets are gearing up for the 2025-26 National Hockey League season by participating in the Prospects Challenge at LECOM Harborcenter in Buffalo, New York from September 11-15. The event will feature teams like the Boston Bruins, Buffalo Sabres, New Jersey Devils, and Pittsburgh Penguins. Practice sessions and tournament games will take place at LECOM Harborcenter.
The Blue Jackets' schedule for the event includes morning skates, practice sessions, and games against the New Jersey Devils, Buffalo Sabres, and Pittsburgh Penguins. The team will be coached by Trent Vogelhuber, head coach of the Cleveland Monsters, the Blue Jackets' AHL affiliate. The roster consists of 23 players, including prospects drafted by the team and those who signed entry-level contracts.
Key players to watch during the tournament include defenseman Charlie Elick and goaltender Evan Gardner, both second-round picks from the 2024 draft. Other drafted players from various years will also be showcasing their skills. The Blue Jackets' veterans and rookies will kick off training camp after the Prospects Challenge, with the first preseason game scheduled for September 21 against the St. Louis Blues. The regular season will commence on October 9 against the Nashville Predators.