NHL.com is providing in-depth analysis for each of its 30 teams throughout August. Today, the biggest reasons for optimism and the biggest questions facing the Columbus Blue Jackets:
After missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs last season, the Columbus Blue Jackets are banking on the core that led them to the postseason in 2013-14 doing so again.
That was with a different coach. John Tortorella took over for Todd Richards after an 0-7-0 start last season and spent much of his time eyeing the future.
"It was a feeling-out process for him and the players as well," left wing Brandon Saad said.