The Columbus Blue Jackets have just three days remaining until their season-opening game at Nationwide Arena, and the number 3 jersey remains a popular choice among players. Let’s revisit some notable individuals who have worn the number 3 for the Jackets and see where they are now.
František Kučera – In 2001, Kučera was drafted by Chicago in 1986. He played 48 games in his first season with Columbus, earning seven points, and retired in 2004 to return to his homeland of Czechia.
Jaroslav Špaček – From 2002 to 2004, Špaček, drafted by Florida in 1998, appeared in 153 games for Columbus, tallying 72 points early in the franchise’s history. His son, David Špaček, was born in Columbus and was drafted by the Minnesota Wild in 2022. Currently, David plays for the AHL’s Iowa Wild, and Jaroslav has taken up the role of Youth Hockey Director at HC Plzeň in Czechia.
Marc Methot – Between 2009 and 2012, Methot, a 6th-round pick in the 2003 NHL Draft, wore #3 for Columbus, playing 275 games and scoring 51 points. Known as a defensive defenseman, he was traded to the Ottawa Senators in 2012, where he played another 349 NHL games before retiring during the 2018-19 season after nine games.
Jordan Leopold – In 2015, Leopold, originally drafted by Anaheim in 1999, played 18 games for Columbus after being traded from St. Louis. He was then dealt to Minnesota in March 2015 and retired at season’s end. Since retiring, he has served as an assistant coach at Andover High in Minnesota.
Seth Jones – From 2016 to 2021, Jones, drafted by Nashville in 2013, tallied 50 goals and 223 points in 381 games for Columbus. He ranks second in franchise history for goals, assists, and points by a defenseman and was traded to Chicago in 2021, later moving to the Florida Panthers and winning a Stanley Cup. Known for his excellent skating and hockey sense, Jones is considered a well-rounded defender.
Jack Johnson – Drafted by Carolina in 2005, Johnson played 486 games for Columbus after a trade that sent Jeff Carter the other way. Over seven years, he scored 36 goals and amassed 156 points. After bouncing around the league and finally winning the Stanley Cup in 2022, he returned to Columbus in 2024. Last season, he played 41 games with six points, though a strained relationship with the coaching staff limited his play.
Charlie Coyle – Traded to Columbus in 2025 after being drafted by San Jose in 2010, Coyle had a standout season, scoring 20 goals and totaling 58 points—just shy of his career best. He signed a six-year, $36 million extension, feeling valued by the organization and the leadership’s loyalty.
As the season approaches, fans are curious—whose #3 jersey has left a lasting impression?
Fan Take: The history of players who have worn #3 reflects the diverse roles and impacts they’ve had on the team, making the jersey a symbol of both defensive grit and leadership. For hockey fans, this legacy underscores the importance of well-rounded players in building a competitive and storied franchise—something to watch as new stars continue the tradition.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
