The Columbus Blue Jackets begin their mini camp today with the entire team reporting for physicals. The first practice is set for tomorrow. Unlike last season, which was marred by injuries to key players, the team enters camp healthy.
Captain Boone Jenner, who was sidelined during last year’s training camp until late February, is back. Veterans Erik Gudbranson and Sean Monahan also missed significant portions of the previous season, while point leader Kirill Marchenko was absent for some games as well.
This year, the Blue Jackets welcome several new players. Charlie Coyle, formerly of the Boston Bruins, and Miles Wood joined the team through a summer trade. Additionally, Isaac Lundestrom signed as a free agent, aiming to fill the role left by Sean Kuraly.
Training camp will feature several position battles. The competition for the seventh defenseman spot is notable, with Jake Christiansen, who played a career-high 68 games last season, and veteran Brendan Smith, signed to a professional tryout, vying for the position.
A depth forward position is also open, with Luca Del Bel Belluz hoping to secure a spot after impressing in limited action last year. The backup goalie position is another area of competition. Jet Greaves, who ended last season strongly, is a contender but has yet to make an opening-night roster. The team recently traded for 6-foot-7 goalie Ivan Fedotov to compete with Greaves and Elvis Merzlikins.