COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — The Columbus Blue Jackets held their Media Day on Monday to prepare for the team’s historic 25th season.

Coach Dean Evason, General Manager Don Waddell, team captain Boone Jenner, forward Sean Monahan, defenseman Zach Werenski and forward Adam Fantilli spoke during the session.

Here’s what they had to say.

What are the Jackets’ goals for the regular season?

Waddell said the goal this year is to compete. To win a cup, you have to make the playoffs. He said there’s a different outlook for this team this year from a year ago.

Evason said the playoffs are the expectations for the team. He added that the team was systematically dialed in at the end of last season, and hopes it continues at the start of this season.

Werenski said the team is building on the positives of last season.

“if we’re not a playoff team it’s a failure,” he said.

Will the Jackets trade star forward Yegor Chinakhov, who asked for one over the summer?

Waddell says he told Yegor Chinakhov he’s an asset. He said they will trade him if there’s value. Added that he came in great shape and no signs of slacking.

How often will Jackets players play during the preseason?

Evason said each player will play three games. He said he’s excited about the league’s plans to go from seven to four preseason games in 2026.

How does the Jackets defense look this season?

Evason said he’s feels good about the team’s defense.

Why did the Jackets trade for goalie Ivan Fedotov from the Philadelphia Flyers?

“I don’t have nightmares too often, but every nightmare I had this summer was about goaltending. So I thought we should probably address it.” Waddell joked.

What about goalie Jet Greaves, who starred for the Jackets at the end of the season?

“If Jet gives us the best chance to win, he’ll play,” Waddell said.

Evason said he’s excited about the goalie situation and spoke highly of Greaves and fellow goaltender Elvis Merzikins.

How is Sean Monahan dealing with the death of close friend Johnny Gaudreau one year later?

“It’s something I still think about daily. But being back here with the guys makes me feel better,” Monahan said.

What is the status of defenseman Denton Mateychuk’s injury?

Waddell said he won’t take part in practice this week but said it was a short-term injury. Evason he could rejoin the team before its first preseason game.

Preseason games for the Jackets start Sept. 21 at home against St. Louis, and the regular season schedule starts Oct. 9 at Nashville.

How is Dmitri Voronkov looking so far?

Evason looks Voronkov looks “fantastic” and in “great shape.”

“When he left, we challenged him to be in fantastic shape when he gets back. He is,” Evason said.

When does the Jackets’ season start?

Preseason games for the Jackets start Sept. 21 at home against St. Louis, and the regular season schedule starts Oct. 9 at Nashville.