Blue Jackets Placed Three Players on Waivers
The Columbus Blue Jackets reduced their training camp roster to 26 players ahead of the new NHL season.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Hockey
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The Columbus Blue Jackets placed James Malatesta, Phoenix Copley, and Owen Sillinger on waivers. This move is part of a larger effort to trim the team roster following a fifth-place finish in the Metropolitan Division last season.
Why it matters
The organization is focusing on players who can help the club reach the playoffs immediately. The team has significantly increased roster depth, which has created more competition for permanent NHL roster spots.
James Malatesta recorded 10 goals, 18 points, and 87 penalty minutes over 57 games for Cleveland last season. The team reduced its active training camp roster from 46 players to the current 26 players.
The players
James Malatesta
He is a 24-year-old hockey player who spent the previous season developing with the Cleveland affiliate.
Columbus Blue Jackets
This is a professional hockey team that competes in the Metropolitan Division of the NHL.
The details
The Blue Jackets are actively working to finalize their lineup as they shift focus toward playoff contention. James Malatesta is expected to continue his professional development with the Cleveland AHL affiliate.
Timeline
September 24, 2026: The Columbus Blue Jackets placed the players on waivers.
Season Trajectory
These roster cuts reflect the organizational shift toward immediate playoff contention following the team's fifth-place finish in the Metropolitan Division last year. The move signals a broader transition toward prioritizing depth and veteran competition to climb the divisional rankings.
The roster reduction to 26 players sets the stage for the final opening-night lineup selection. These moves clarify which younger talents will gain NHL experience and which will continue their development in Cleveland.
The takeaway
The Blue Jackets are demonstrating a commitment to building a roster capable of immediate postseason impact. Fans should monitor how the remaining 26 players adapt to the increased competition for ice time as the regular season approaches.
Further reading
For more news on the team's development, visit Columbus Hockey.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Heavy.
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