Columbus Blue Jackets Buy Out Boqvist, Let Nylander Walk in Roster Overhaul

In a significant roster reshuffling move, the Columbus Blue Jackets have opted to part ways with defenseman Adam Boqvist, following the recent trade of Alexandre Texier to the St. Louis Blues. Newly appointed President and General Manager, Don Waddell, is spearheading a series of changes within the team.

As reported by Aaron Portzline of The Athletic, the Blue Jackets are set to place Adam Boqvist on waivers with the intention to buy out the remaining year of his contract, signaling a definitive change in the team’s defensive lineup.

Adam Boqvist, a 23-year-old defenseman, was expected to earn $3.2 million in the upcoming 2024-25 season, with a salary cap hit of $2.6 million. The buyout will see the team owe Boqvist $533,334 annually for the next two seasons, ultimately saving $2.1 million in the process.

During his tenure with the Columbus Blue Jackets, Boqvist played in 133 games, tallying 17 goals and 39 assists. However, recurring injuries hindered his performance, leading to missed games in each of his three seasons with the club.

Additionally, the Blue Jackets have decided not to qualify winger Alex Nylander, who was acquired from the Pittsburgh Penguins earlier this year in exchange for Emil Bemstrom. Nylander, aged 26, became an unrestricted free agent following the team’s decision, after a brief but impressive stint with Columbus.

Alex Nylander was a standout performer for the Blue Jackets in his 23-game tenure, showcasing his offensive prowess with 11 goals and four assists, including multiple multi-goal games and a record-breaking hat trick in just his fifth game with the team.

The upcoming free agency window presents an opportunity for both Adam Boqvist and Alex Nylander to explore new possibilities within the NHL. Teams like the Dallas Stars, San Jose Sharks, and Carolina Hurricanes could potentially be eyeing these talented players to bolster their rosters ahead of the new season.

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