The Columbus Blue Jackets are reportedly in advanced discussions with defenseman Dante Fabbro regarding a long-term contract extension, as confirmed by Andy Strickland. Meanwhile, Jonathan Toews is drawing interest from several teams, notably the Winnipeg Jets and Colorado Avalanche, with the Tampa Bay Lightning also showing potential interest. The Pittsburgh Penguins find themselves at a crossroads, having shifted from a playoff contention mindset to a rebuilding phase after a disappointing season. Their recent decisions, including the re-signing of Tristan Jarry and the acquisition of Erik Karlsson, suggest a need for strategic trades to facilitate the transition towards integrating younger talents.

Elvis Merzlikins, the Columbus Blue Jackets' goaltender, has been officially named to represent Latvia in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. This marks a significant achievement for Merzlikins, who has previously showcased his skills at six men's world championships. Despite his selection, fellow teammate Zach Werenski did not make the initial roster for the USA Olympic team, sparking discussions about possible roster decisions.

Merzlikins has faced challenges in the NHL, holding a career record of 94-100-35 with a 3.20 GAA and .902 save percentage. His recent season included a respectable performance, yet there are ongoing debates concerning his future with the Blue Jackets as he approaches the final years of his contract. The team's management has indicated there are no plans for a buyout, keeping Merzlikins as the starting goalie for the upcoming season.

Columbus Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell has firmly stated that the team will not pursue buyouts for players Elvis Merzlikins and Damon Severson this offseason. Instead of opting for buyouts that would stretch their contracts over extended periods, Waddell aims to provide both players another chance to succeed in the upcoming season, as the team transitions toward improvement.

Waddell emphasized keeping both players, despite Merzlikins' mixed performance and Severson's challenges last season. The cost of potential buyouts would burden the salary cap in the long term, making it a less viable option. With a clear focus on rebuilding, the Blue Jackets plan on leveraging their $42 million salary cap space for more strategic investments rather than jumping into complex buyout scenarios.

As NHL teams prepare for the upcoming season, several players are emerging as potential breakout candidates. Notably, the spotlight shines on Liam Ohgren, who has shown impressive growth in the junior leagues and is expected to make a significant impact at the professional level. Meanwhile, Jorian Donovan is gaining traction as a defensive cornerstone for the Ottawa Senators, drawing attention for his two-way play.

In the crease, Zach Sawchenko's competitive spirit and recent performances suggest he could secure a backup role, providing valuable depth for the Columbus Blue Jackets. With teams evaluating their rosters, the upcoming training camps will be crucial for these players to solidify their positions and make their mark in the NHL.

As the Columbus Blue Jackets gear up for free agency on July 1, general manager Don Waddell faces crucial decisions regarding nine unrestricted free agents. With over $42 million in cap space, Waddell aims to retain key players like defensemen Ivan Provorov and Dante Fabbro, and forwards Sean Kuraly and James van Riemsdyk. The rise in the NHL salary cap, expected to reach $95.5 million by 2025-26, further enhances the team's negotiation power.

Priority talks have been initiated for Provorov, Fabbro, and forward Dmitri Voronkov, who impressed this season. As the clock ticks down, the Jackets must assess the value of their current players against potential market options, balancing long-term contracts with immediate roster needs.