This past week, the Columbus Blue Jackets were faced with three big games that would affect their trade deadline plans. Columbus faced the Dallas Stars and back-to-back games with the Detroit Red Wings, with whom they are locked in a wild-card race.

Remembering Johnny Gaudreau.
Our @ESPN feature tribute to Johnny Hockey.
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Like the rest of the NHL, the Blue Jackets had a two-week break for the Four Worlds Tournament. Once the tournament had ended, the Stars came to Columbus, and the Blue Jackets showed little to no rust as they handed Dallas a 6-4 loss. The team headed to Detroit, and from puck drop to the final horn, the Blue Jackets dominated Detroit and came away 5-2 winners.

Columbus Blue Jackets/NHL

Then came the second game of the Red Wings' two games in the 2025 NHL Stadium Series. The city of Columbus was a splendid host. Fans were treated to a Fan Fest with games and raffles, food, and the Stanley Cup was also part of the fun. There was a pep rally with O.A.R., a band from the Columbus area. Johnny Gaudreau's widow, Meredith, and her children led the team from the pep rally to Ohio Stadium.

Columbus Blue Jackets/NHL

The Stadium Series is a spectacle in and of itself. The game saw the Blue Jackets play one of their worst games of the season and still win 5-3, giving the team a huge two points. As it stands, they are currently just two points behind Detroit for a wild-card spot.

The 2025 NHL #StadiumSeries delivers most-viewed regular season game since ESPN re-acquired the rights in 2021

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In a week of difficult games, many thought the Blue Jackets would do well to get three of a possible six points, but by beating Detroit twice and Dallas, Columbus walked away with six points.

Columbus Blue Jackets/NHL

The NHL trade deadline is Friday, and even though it may be a year early, the fact is the Blue Jackets are knocking on the playoffs' door. Suddenly, Columbus will not be sellers at the deadline—they will buy and see if they can get in.