For a very long time, the Columbus Blue Jackets have struggled to stand out a lot within the National Hockey League, because the staff have made the Stanley Cup Playoffs simply six occasions since arriving in 2000-01, profitable only one true spherical in that point.
Recently, they have been constructing a powerful younger core led by Norris Trophy finalist Zach Werenski, Jet Greaves in purpose and former high draft decide Adam Fantilli. This previous season, they made a transfer to take an enormous step ahead, as they moved on from Dean Evason in the course of the season, turning to veteran Rick Bowness, who helped the staff enhance mightily, going 21-11-5 in 37 video games behind the bench.
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As a consequence, the staff are hoping to take an enormous leap in 2026-27 and get again to the post-season, and to try this, they consider they want to proceed locking of their veterans. One such participant is 34-year-old Charlie Coyle, who arrived in Columbus this previous low season in a commerce with the Colorado Avalanche.
After his arrival, Coyle tallied 20 targets and 58 factors throughout all 82 video games in his first season with the staff, taking part in essential minutes on the Blue Jackets second line. Despite being 34-years-old, the Blue Jackets like what they see, and on Tuesday, the staff took to social media to announce a long-term extension.
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The dedication is a large one as nicely, as Coyle has been handed a six-year, $36 million deal, carrying an AAV of $6 million per yr between now and the 2031-32 marketing campaign. At his peak, Coyle was in a position to be a stable 45-60 level participant within the NHL, however at 34-years-old with Sean Monahan already signed to a long-term deal, followers of the staff definitely acknowledge the danger that comes together with this new contract.
With some younger names on the roster, the Blue Jackets clearly acknowledge that they could find a way to push for a Stanley Cup Playoffs spot in 2026-27, and with the staff needing their veterans round, this deal is sensible for each events. Whether it pays off or not, solely time will inform, however given how shut Columbus really feel they’re, that is the kind of threat they want to take to be aggressive within the coming years.
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This story was initially revealed by Athlon Sports on May 12, 2026, the place it first appeared within the NHL part. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.