Columbus Blue Jackets: Top 3 questions that need to be answered in 2020

The hiatus of the 2019-20 NHL season has the Columbus Blue Jackets wondering what happens next, as these questions still need answers.

The novel coronavirus pandemic has put the entire world on hold. Though things are finally starting to open back up, the NHL season remains up in the air. The Columbus Blue Jackets entered the hiatus fighting for a playoff spot, placing ninth in the Eastern Conference in point percentage.

Under usual circumstances, this would have them out of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. But if the NHL goes straight to the postseason, it will likely be with an expanded format. The 24-team format is really starting to gain traction. This would benefit the Blue Jackets and give their season a second chance.

Their goal at the start of the season was to make the playoffs. The pandemic originally might have ruined it. But now it might give them the chance to do that, and make some noise in the process. Only time will tell if the Blue Jackets will find the answers to these questions.

1. Are They Finally Healthy Enough?

The Columbus Blue Jackets have faced numerous injuries this season. Star defenseman Seth Jones has missed 14 games due to injuries. Fellow blue liner Zach Werenski has missed eight games. Star forward Cam Atkinson has missed over 20 and so has young forward Oliver Bjorkstrand. Furthermore, Josh Anderson has only played 26 games while dealing with a shoulder injury.

In a way, the hiatus has been a blessing for them, as it’s giving the Blue Jackets a chance to finally get healthy. Most of their injured players are expected to return if the season starts back up. They’ll need all the help they can get, as they’re currently the ninth seed in the Eastern Conference, which would guarantee them an unfavorable matchup in the first round or play-in round.