Columbus Blue Jackets: A Look Back at Jersey Number 22
As the anticipation builds for the Columbus Blue Jackets’ opening night just 22 days away at Nationwide Arena, it’s time to reflect on the lineage of players who wore the iconic jersey number 22.
Players Who Wore Number 22
Chris Nielsen donned the number between 2001 and 2002. He was a product of the New York Islanders’ 1998 draft but later transferred to the Blue Jackets, where he played a total of 52 games over two seasons. Following his time with Columbus, he immersed himself in the AHL before relocating to Germany for a season. Retiring in 2006, Nielsen has since become an attending surgeon at the University Health Network and serves as an Assistant Professor in the Division of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Toronto.
Luke Richardson sported number 22 from 2003 to 2006, after being drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1987. He made his mark as the captain of the Blue Jackets during his tenure in Columbus, participating in 190 games. A March 2006 trade sent him back to the Maple Leafs, and after a brief stint with the Senators, Richardson retired from playing on November 27, 2008. Transitioning to coaching the same year, he gained experience across various NHL and AHL teams, with his latest role being an assistant coach for the Nashville Predators starting in the 2025-26 season.
Mike Commodore took the jersey in 2009 and wore it until 2011. After being drafted by the New Jersey Devils in 1999, he signed a lucrative five-year contract with the Blue Jackets worth $18.75 million in 2008. His journey in Columbus involved 158 games before he was placed on waivers in January 2011, eventually appearing in the AHL before closure of his playing career, which included time in the KHL. Commodore is well-known for his infamous feud with coach Mike Babcock.
Václav Prospal embraced jersey #22 in the 2012-2013 season after being selected by the Philadelphia Flyers in 1993. Prospal played 130 games and accumulated 85 points before retiring on January 24, 2014. Following his departure from playing, he moved into coaching youth in Tampa before returning to Czechia until 2021, and he has recently accepted a role as an assistant coach for the Rochester Americans of the AHL.
Sonny Milano, a product of the Blue Jackets’ own 2014 draft, wore the number from 2016 to 2020. Over five years, he managed 116 games and 42 points, alongside spending significant time with the Lake Erie/Cleveland Monsters. Milano’s journey came to an end with Columbus in February 2020, when he was traded to the Anaheim Ducks.
Jake Bean, another chapter in the jersey’s history, was acquired from the Carolina Hurricanes in 2021. He penned a three-year contract but faced challenges, playing only 153 games during his time with the Blue Jackets, hampered by a significant shoulder injury. He departed Columbus in 2024 to join the Calgary Flames.
Jordan Harris was traded to Columbus from the Montréal Canadiens before the 2024-25 season, as part of a deal that sent Patrik Laine the other way. He appeared in just 33 matches during the last season, frequently found himself as a healthy scratch amidst a crowded blue line. Harris did not receive a qualifying offer from the Blue Jackets this summer and subsequently signed with the Boston Bruins, his hometown team.
Upcoming Season and Preseason Matchups
Looking ahead, the Blue Jackets will kick off their season away against the New Jersey Devils, following training camp which begins on September 18. As the preseason unfolds, several roster changes are expected as the team evaluates the performance of various players. Mark your calendars for the following preseason matchups:
- September 21 vs. St. Louis Blues (5 p.m. ET)
- September 22 vs. Buffalo Sabres (7 p.m. ET)
- September 23 at Buffalo Sabres (7 p.m. ET)
- September 24 vs. Pittsburgh Penguins (7 p.m. ET)
- September 27 at Pittsburgh Penguins (7 p.m. ET)
- September 30 vs. Washington Capitals (7 p.m. ET)
- October 4 at Washington Capitals (7 p.m. ET)
The Blue Jackets will dive into their regular season on the road against the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena. Stay tuned for more updates on your favorite team in preparation for an exciting new season!
