The Columbus Blue Jackets are no strangers to goaltending turbulence. From the high hopes of Elvis Merzļikins to the loss of Joonas Korpisalo, stability in the crease has been hard to come by. Enter one intriguing name on the free-agent market: Alex Lyon.
The 32-year-old netminder may not be a household name, but don’t sleep on what he brings to the table. Fresh off a solid campaign backing up Juuse Saros in Nashville, Lyon has carved out a reputation as a dependable, hard-working goaltender who thrives when given a chance.
Could Columbus be the team that finally hands him the reins?
The Case for Alex Lyon in Columbus
Let’s look at the numbers.
Lyon posted a .915 save percentage and a 2.61 goals-against average in 27 games this season—strong numbers for a backup who frequently faced high-danger chances. He also won big games down the stretch as Nashville made its playoff push. He’s calm under pressure, well-liked in every locker room he’s entered, and always up for a challenge.
Now imagine him in Columbus, where the goaltending situation remains fluid. With Daniil Tarasov still developing and Merzļikins’ future uncertain, Lyon could step in and compete for serious playing time—possibly even the No. 1 job.
Why Lyon Fits CBJ’s Blueprint
The Jackets don’t need a superstar in net right now—they need reliability.
Lyon isn’t going to demand a massive contract. He’s not flashy. But he’s effective, smart, and composed. For a rebuilding or retooling team like Columbus, that’s gold. He could serve as a bridge to the next great CBJ goaltender while offering stability in a critical position.
He also brings playoff experience, including a memorable 2023 run with the Florida Panthers. That matters for a young team looking to learn how to win.
What Would a Deal Look Like?
A two-year contract worth around $2 million annually would be right in line with recent comparable deals. It’s an affordable, smart move that offers flexibility and insurance—especially if Columbus decides to part ways with Merzļikins.
Final Thoughts
The Blue Jackets have big questions in the crease heading into 2025-26. Adding Alex Lyon wouldn’t just answer one of them—it could prove to be one of the savviest under-the-radar moves of the offseason.
Don’t be surprised if Lyon’s name starts gaining traction when the market opens. He’s not the flashiest option, but he might just be the right one for Columbus