Blue Jackets Rumors: Team Hiring 10-Year Veteran NHL Goalie

Former NHL goaltender Niklas Bäckström is set to join the coaching staff of the Columbus Blue Jackets, solidifying their goaltending department for the upcoming season.

The official announcement is expected later this summer, but multiple sources indicate that Bäckström will take on the role of goaltending coach.

This move comes as the Blue Jackets finalize their coaching staff, with Mike Babcock reported as the new head coach.

A source says Niklas Backstrom is the next goal tending coach for the #cbj

— Jason Newland™️ (@F1RETHECANNON) June 10, 2023

Bäckström, a 45-year-old Helsinki native, brings a wealth of experience to his new role.

During his 10-season NHL career, primarily spent with the Minnesota Wild, he played 409 games and showcased his technical skills, earning a nomination for the Vezina Trophy in the 2008-09 season.

Since retiring from professional play in 2019, Bäckström has been involved with the Columbus organization in various capacities, including scouting and European goaltending development coaching.

The decision to bring in Bäckström as the goaltending coach likely stems from the struggles faced by Elvis Merzlikins, the Blue Jackets' goaltender, during the previous season.

Multiple sources indicate Niklas Bäckström will be named goaltending coach by #CBJ, replacing Manny Legace, whose contract was not renewed.

Bäckström, who had a great career in Finland and w NHL's Wild, has been w CBJ since 2019-20 as European goaltending consultant.

— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) June 12, 2023

The team hopes that Bäckström's expertise can help Merzlikins regain his form. Bäckström's responsibilities will also extend to working with Daniil Tarasov, another promising goaltender in the Blue Jackets' system.

Overall, Bäckström's addition to the coaching staff is expected to bolster the Blue Jackets' goaltending department and provide valuable guidance to their netminders as they aim to improve their performance in the upcoming season.

With Babcock as the head coach and Bäckström as the goaltending coach, the Blue Jackets are taking significant steps to strengthen their coaching staff and elevate their game. Photo Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports