Unexpected turn of events for the new head coach of the Blue Jackets

By the end of June, Todd McLellan appeared to be the frontrunner to take over the helm in Columbus.

However, no official announcement has been made yet, although Mark Scheig from The Hockey Writers suggested that the Blue Jackets could soon make a decision after interviewing McLellan, Dean Evason, and a mystery candidate, possibly Jay Woodcroft or Gerard Gallant.

Aaron Portzline revealed that McLellan withdrew from consideration due to prolonged disagreements with the Los Angeles Kings, casting uncertainty over the next steps for the team.

With four different head coaches since 2021, the organization is clearly seeking to stabilize its situation and reposition itself for the future.