Blue Jackets GM Blast Columbus 'Acceptable Losing' Culture

New Columbus Blue Jackets president and general manager Don Waddell issued a bold statement about the former staff ruling over the franchise, saying "losing was acceptable" before his arrival.

Waddell, however, made it clear that he's on a mission to transform the team's culture.

“The one thing is--I’m not saying it was everybody--but losing was acceptable (in Columbus) and losing is not acceptable,” Waddell told NHL.com’s Dave McCarthy on August 22 . “We have a ways to go building this, but our goal every year should be to win the Stanley Cup, not just to win some games. It’s a mindset.”

After taking the helm earlier this year, Waddell realized that a losing mentality had taken root within the organization.

Truth be told, the Blue Jackets have struggled in recent years, failing to make the playoffs since 2020 . Their .421 points percentage over the past four seasons ranks 29th in the NHL, and they've finished last in their division in back-to-back campaigns.

Most recently, Columbus is coming off a 2023–24 season posting a 27-43-12 record, falling 25 points short of a playoff spot.

Waddell noted that the team "fell out of the race pretty quick," and then "they just kind of played out the season."

"We have to change that," Waddell stated.

Since taking over, Waddell has already made significant changes, including the firing of general manager Jarmo Kekalainen in February , replacing him with himself at the position in May.

Waddell followed that decision by hiring head coach Pascal Vincent in June and bringing in Dean Evason as the new coach.

“It’s all about starting with accountability, a structure in place, and culture will get there,” Waddell said. “Back in Carolina, when I took over and I hired Rod Brind’Amour, Rod was great about executing a plan. And I believe Dean Evason has the same mold. It has to be about hockey."

"So the No. 1 priority is to prepare ourselves every night. It doesn’t mean you are going to win every night but prepare yourself so you have a chance to win.”

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