Blue Jackets Commit to Keeping Kent Johnson Despite Struggles

Columbus stands firm on 23-year-old center despite trade interest from other teams

Mar. 5, 2026 at 7:22pm

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The Columbus Blue Jackets have decided to hold onto center Kent Johnson despite his struggles this season. Johnson, the 5th overall pick in the 2021 draft, was recently scratched from the lineup, leading to speculation that the team might trade him. However, The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun reports that the Blue Jackets have told other teams they are not interested in moving Johnson, as they still believe in his long-term potential despite his down year.

Why it matters

Johnson's development is crucial for the Blue Jackets, who selected him in the top 5 just two years ago. While he has not lived up to expectations this season, the team is showing patience and commitment to helping him reach his full potential rather than cutting bait early.

The details

In 57 games this season, Johnson has just 6 goals and 12 assists, a major drop-off from his 24 goals and 33 assists in 68 games last year. His average ice time has also dipped to just 13 minutes and 39 seconds per game as he has struggled to find his game. However, the Blue Jackets believe in Johnson's long-term upside, and other teams have expressed interest in acquiring him via trade.

  • Johnson was recently scratched from the Blue Jackets' lineup.

The players

Kent Johnson

A 23-year-old center for the Columbus Blue Jackets, who was the 5th overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft.

Pierre LeBrun

A hockey journalist who writes for The Athletic and reported on the Blue Jackets' decision to keep Johnson.

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What they’re saying

“Teams have called on Columbus Blue Jackets center Kent Johnson after his recent scratch, but the answer from the Blue Jackets has been that they're not interested in moving him. Johnson is having a down year, but the fifth overall pick from the 2021 draft is still only 23, and Columbus very much still believes in the player he can be.”

— Pierre LeBrun, Hockey Journalist

What’s next

The Blue Jackets will look to help Johnson regain his form and continue to develop as a key part of their future plans.

The takeaway

The Blue Jackets' decision to hold onto Kent Johnson despite his struggles this season demonstrates their commitment to developing young talent and belief in his long-term potential, even if the short-term results have been disappointing.