In a rare and raw moment that’s got the Blue Jackets fanbase buzzing, Kent Johnson and Adam Fantilli didn’t just skate past the noise—they addressed it head-on.
Speaking with The Hockey News’ Derek O’Brien, the young Columbus stars delivered a fiery message of support for their embattled goaltender, Elvis Merzlikins, and made one thing very clear:
They believe in their guy.
> “People forget what Elvis has done for this team,” Johnson said. “He’s been there for us in huge games. Everyone goes through ups and downs, but we know who he is—and we have his back.”
Fantilli didn’t hold back either, bringing that signature confidence fans have come to love.
> “Elvis is a battler. He shows up every night and gives us a chance to win. The stuff he takes from the outside? We hear it. We don’t like it. And we’re letting him know we’ve got him.”
The comments come after months of scrutiny surrounding Merzlikins’ play, as the Jackets continue their uphill climb in a loaded Eastern Conference. But inside the locker room? There’s no doubt. No hesitation.
This team rides with Elvis.
O’Brien noted that the tone of the conversation shifted when Merzlikins’ name came up—passion turned to pride, and the message was unified.
For a Blue Jackets roster filled with young talent and raw potential, moments like this matter. They build identity. They show leadership.
And they send a message to the league: This locker room is tight. And they’re coming.
Stay tuned—because if Elvis gets hot again? With KJ and Fantilli leading the charge? The Jackets might just turn heads sooner than anyone expected.
Check out the full interview with The Hockey News’ Derek O’Brien—because the Blue Jackets aren’t just talking. They’re making noise