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Electric Start: Kent Johnson’s First Ten Games Is Showing He Belongs On The Blue Jackets’ Top Line

Kent Johnson’s first ten games of the season is showing that the Columbus Blue Jackets made the right decision to put him on the top line.

By Ed Francis · 1st Ohio Battery

Published: Thursday, 29 October 2026 at 3:45 PM

Key Things to Know

Writer Ed Francis argues Kent Johnson is proving he belongs on Columbus' top line with 10 points in 10 games.
Johnson leads the Blue Jackets with six goals, already just one shy of his entire 2025-26 total.
Johnson scored overtime game-winners against the New York Rangers in a 1-0 win and the Philadelphia Flyers in a 4-3 victory.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Kent Johnson has started the 2026-27 NHL season on the Columbus Blue Jackets' top line, leading the team with six goals and 10 points through 10 games. Centered by Adam Fantilli, Johnson has produced key moments, including overtime game-winning goals against the New York Rangers on October 17 and the Philadelphia Flyers on Tuesday.

The strong stretch marks a significant bounce-back for Johnson after a difficult 2025-26 campaign where he scored just 22 points in 76 games. Head coach Rick Bowness attributed the turnaround to improved physical strength and confidence, noting that Johnson gained muscle over the offseason.

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