The Columbus Blue Jackets are heading into a crucial week, February 2nd to 9th, 2026, before the NHL pauses for the 2026 Winter Olympics. This week could determine whether they are buyers or sellers at the trade deadline.

The "Bowness Bump" & Playoff Push

The biggest story surrounding the Blue Jackets is the impressive turnaround under interim head coach Rick Bowness. After the surprising dismissal of Dean Evason in mid-January, Bowness has ignited a spark in the team. Columbus was at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings in early January but have surged into the playoff conversation under Bowness. Since Bowness took over on January 12th, the Blue Jackets have won nine of their last ten games. This hot streak has put them within six points of a playoff spot. The Blue Jackets are currently 4th in the Metro Division with a record of 26-20-7.

Bowness has emphasized the importance of defensive play, and the team has responded. The Blue Jackets have also been starting games stronger, scoring the first goal in seven of eight games under Bowness, compared to 25 of 45 games under Evason. Zach Werenski believes that getting in front early has been a key factor in their success.

Bowness said that the players are starting to realize what they look like when they're playing well. He also said that the players know their strengths and the things they'll continue to work on.

This Week's Schedule

The Blue Jackets have two games this week before the Olympic break.

• Tuesday, February 3 vs New Jersey Devils 7 PM
• Wednesday, February 4 vs Chicago Blackhawks 7 PM

Sweeping these games would give them serious momentum heading into the Olympic break and might make the front office reconsider selling at the trade deadline.

The Charlie Coyle Dilemma

Veteran center Charlie Coyle has become a hot topic as the trade deadline approaches. Coyle is a pending unrestricted free agent, making him an attractive trade target for teams looking to contend for the Stanley Cup. He is currently playing some of his best hockey, demonstrated by his recent hat trick against Chicago. In the game against the Blackhawks, Coyle scored his 13th, 14th, and 15th goals of the season. He also recorded his 24th assist.

Since January 11th, Coyle's nine goals are second in the NHL. He had nine points, five goals and four assists, over a three-game stretch, including a hat trick versus the Blackhawks.

The Blue Jackets' management faces a difficult decision with Coyle. They could trade him for future assets, or they could keep him as a key player for a potential playoff run.

Coyle could be a legitimate Selke contender, awarded to the league's top defensive forward. In addition to his hat trick, his defense helped keep Connor Bedard's line in check.

Final Sprint Before the Olympic Break

The NHL season will pause from February 6th to February 24th for the 2026 Winter Olympics. The Blue Jackets need to "empty the tank" in this back-to-back set of games. Entering the break with wins would solidify the locker room's belief that they are legitimate contenders. Losses, however, could stall their momentum and leave them in "seller" territory when the league resumes in late February.