Columbus Blue Jackets Place Carson Soucy on Waivers

The veteran defenceman will be sent to the AHL if he is not claimed by another NHL team within 24 hours.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Hockey

Columbus Blue Jackets Place Carson Soucy on Waivers

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The Columbus Blue Jackets have placed 32-year-old defenceman Carson Soucy on waivers. NHL clubs have 24 hours to claim the player, otherwise he will be reassigned to the AHL.

Why it matters

The move suggests the organization is looking to adjust its roster composition after Soucy struggled to find stability during his brief stint in Columbus. The team will now wait to see if his contract clears or if another franchise chooses to add the veteran to their roster.

Soucy recorded one assist and a -5 plus/minus rating while averaging 14:45 of ice time over seven games this season. He is currently playing under a one-year contract valued at $1.15 million.

The players

Carson Soucy

A 32-year-old NHL defenceman who has played for several franchises including the Vancouver Canucks and New York Islanders.

Columbus Blue Jackets

A professional ice hockey team based in Columbus that competes in the National Hockey League.

The details

The 6-foot-5 defenceman signed his one-year deal with Columbus on September 29. If he clears waivers, he will head to the AHL for the first time since 2019.

September 29, 2026: Soucy signed a one-year contract with Columbus.
October 28, 2026: Columbus placed Soucy on waivers.

Season Trajectory

This roster move signals a shift for the Blue Jackets as they seek to recalibrate their defensive depth early in the season. By placing a veteran on waivers, the organization is looking to create immediate flexibility to address on-ice performance gaps.

If another team claims Soucy within the 24-hour window, they will assume his $1.15 million contract for the remainder of the season. If he goes unclaimed, his departure from the active roster will create an opening for the club to recall a prospect from the minor leagues.

The takeaway

Roster management is a constant challenge for NHL teams balancing salary cap space and player performance. Players on one-year contracts often face high pressure to produce immediate results to avoid being moved to lower-tier leagues.