Columbus Blue Jackets' Playoff Hopes Fade as Elimination Looms

Projection models and sports books give the Blue Jackets steep odds to make the NHL playoffs this season.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:06am

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A fractured, geometric painting in blue, red, and white tones, capturing the chaotic energy of a hockey match through Picasso-esque abstraction.The Blue Jackets' fading playoff hopes are reflected in a deconstructed, cubist-inspired illustration of the team's final games.Columbus Today

The Columbus Blue Jackets' playoff drought is on the verge of reaching six straight seasons, as simulation models and sports betting odds give them only a 6-31% chance of qualifying for the postseason. After a recent loss to the Boston Bruins, the Blue Jackets need the Philadelphia Flyers to drop just one point in their final two games to be eliminated from playoff contention.

Why it matters

The Blue Jackets' inability to end their playoff drought is a disappointment for the team and its fans, who have been hoping to see the team return to the postseason. This continued absence from the playoffs also raises questions about the team's long-term competitiveness and the direction of the franchise.

The details

The Blue Jackets' playoff hopes took a major hit with their recent 3-2 loss to the Boston Bruins. Simulation models from MoneyPuck, The Athletic, and PlayoffStatus now give Columbus only a 6-31% chance of making the playoffs, down significantly from earlier in the season. Sports betting services have also adjusted their odds, with FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM all listing the Blue Jackets as heavy underdogs to qualify for the postseason.

  • On April 11, the Blue Jackets defeated the Montreal Canadiens 5-2.
  • On April 12, the Blue Jackets lost 3-2 to the Boston Bruins.
  • The Philadelphia Flyers can eliminate the Blue Jackets from playoff contention by earning one point in their final two games on April 13-14.

The players

Columbus Blue Jackets

An NHL team based in Columbus, Ohio that has not made the playoffs in the last six seasons.

Philadelphia Flyers

An NHL team that can eliminate the Blue Jackets from playoff contention by earning one point in their final two games.

Washington Capitals

An NHL team that is competing with the Blue Jackets for a playoff spot, with the two teams facing off in the final game of the regular season on April 14.

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What they’re saying

“Now, it's going to take a miracle for the Blue Jackets avoid their playoff drought reaching six straight seasons.”

— Brian Hedger, Author

What’s next

The Blue Jackets have one game left against a team they are competing with for a playoff spot, hosting the Washington Capitals on April 14 to conclude the regular season. Columbus is ahead of Washington by one point, and each team has two games left.

The takeaway

The Blue Jackets' continued absence from the NHL playoffs raises concerns about the long-term direction of the franchise and its ability to build a consistent contender. This season's disappointing results will likely lead to tough questions about the team's roster, coaching, and management as they look to end their playoff drought.