The Columbus Blue Jackets have had only four players in their history donning the #62 jersey, with a peculiar twist that three of them have appeared since 2023. Though the team has a relatively short 25-year history without any major standout figures wearing this number, that could change in the future.
Let’s take a look at the players who have worn the #62 Blue Jackets jersey.
Alex Broadhurst
Drafted by Chicago in 2011 (7th round, 199th overall), Broadhurst was traded to Columbus in a deal involving Brandon Saad and Michael Paliotta at the 2016 NHL Draft. He mainly played in the AHL with the Cleveland Monsters, appearing in 229 games with 48 goals and 132 points. On February 25, 2019, he was traded to the Winnipeg Jets. He spent the 2019-20 season with the San Diego Gulls before moving to Europe, where he played two seasons in La Liga and three in the KHL. Broadhurst is under contract to play his fourth consecutive season in Russia in 2025-26.
Samuel Kňažko
Drafted by Columbus in 2020 (3rd round, 78th overall), Kňažko is known for his refined passing skills as a defender. However, being a left-shot defender — a less in-demand profile — he was not re-signed after limited NHL appearances and became a free agent. Choosing to return to the Czech Republic, he now plays for HC Vítkovice and is expected to be selected for the Czech team at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Kevin Labanc
Drafted by San Jose in 2014 (6th round, 171st overall), Labanc was signed by Columbus on October 5, 2024. After eight seasons with the Sharks and a stint with the New Jersey Devils, he played 34 games for Columbus last season despite injuries, scoring 2 goals and 12 points. While Labanc showed flashes of his ability, injuries limited his play. Currently without an NHL contract, there are rumors of European interest, suggesting he could return stronger for the 2025-26 season.
At present, no other players are set to wear #62 for Columbus, but someday, a new wearer of this number could make a significant impact on the team.
With just 62 days remaining until the Blue Jackets’ next season opener at the Nationwide Arena, anticipation and urgency are high. GM Don Waddell has secured key signings during the offseason, focusing on important young talents like Adam Fantilli and Jet Greaves. Attention will soon turn to contract negotiations for players such as Kirill Martenko, Kent Johnson, and Dmitri Voronkov in 2027.
Many questions are still unanswered, but Waddell is actively working behind the scenes, whether through trades or free agency, striving to strengthen the roster.
What moves do you think Don Waddell should prioritize for opening night?
The Jackets will face the New Jersey Devils on Monday, October 13 at 7 p.m. This season’s expectations are higher, with many hoping Columbus can finally make the playoffs, something they narrowly missed last year by a single win. Will the Blue Jackets overcome their shortcomings to secure a playoff spot in the competitive Metro division?
Share your thoughts below!
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More from The Hockey News Columbus
- Former Jacket defenseman Jack Johnson has signed a PTO with the Minnesota Wild.
- A spotlight on one of Columbus’s biggest trade assets, goaltender Elvis Merzlikins.
- A look back at August 11, 2020, when Joonas Korpisalo made history during the Stanley Cup playoffs.
Fan Take:
This update highlights Columbus’s ongoing efforts to build a competitive team through savvy signings and player development, which is crucial for a franchise still establishing its identity. The challenge of breaking into playoff contention in a tough division makes every offseason move impactful for the future of both the Blue Jackets and the NHL.
