There is still work left for the Blue Jackets to complete before training camp, but enough changes have taken place to boost optimism.
Nothing could rival the excitement of signing Johnny Gaudreau last summer, but steps were taken this offseason to rebound quickly from a miserable 2022-23 campaign, including changes to the coaching staff, trades to bolster the blue line and drafting Michigan star Adam Fantilli third overall.
Summer optimism reigns supreme again in Columbus, and here are five reasons why:
Columbus Blue Jackets fortified defense with Provorov, Severson deals
The Blue Jackets have struggled defensively since John Tortorella’s final season running the bench in 2021.