Blue Jackets' playoff odds boosted by Kraken win

Columbus remains in third place in the Metropolitan Division with 13 games left

Mar. 22, 2026 at 10:04am

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The Columbus Blue Jackets' playoff chances received a significant boost after their 5-2 victory over the Seattle Kraken on March 21. According to simulation models, the Blue Jackets now have an 84.4% chance of making the playoffs and a 47.7% chance of advancing to the second round. The team remains in third place in the Metropolitan Division with 13 games left in the regular season.

Why it matters

The Blue Jackets are looking to make the playoffs for the first time in six years, and this win over the Kraken has significantly improved their odds. With several key matchups against other playoff contenders coming up, this victory could prove crucial in their push for the postseason.

The details

The Blue Jackets' 5-2 win over the Kraken, combined with the New York Islanders' loss to the Montreal Canadiens, has boosted Columbus' playoff position. According to the MoneyPuck and The Athletic simulation models, the Blue Jackets now have an 84.4% and 88% chance, respectively, of making the playoffs. The models also project the team to finish with around 100 points.

  • The Blue Jackets defeated the Kraken on March 21.
  • The Blue Jackets will face the Islanders on March 22 in Elmont, New York.
  • The Blue Jackets have 13 games remaining in the regular season.

The players

Columbus Blue Jackets

An NHL team based in Columbus, Ohio, that is currently in third place in the Metropolitan Division and looking to make the playoffs for the first time in six years.

Seattle Kraken

An NHL expansion team based in Seattle, Washington, that the Blue Jackets defeated 5-2 on March 21.

New York Islanders

An NHL team that lost to the Montreal Canadiens on March 21, keeping them outside of the playoff picture in the Eastern Conference.

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What’s next

The Blue Jackets have four games remaining against teams they're competing with for a playoff spot, including the Islanders on March 22, the Boston Bruins on March 29 and April 12, and the Detroit Red Wings on April 7.

The takeaway

The Blue Jackets' victory over the Kraken has significantly improved their chances of making the playoffs for the first time in six years. With several key matchups against other playoff contenders coming up, this win could prove crucial in their push for the postseason.