The Boston Bruins are seemingly committed to re-signing Brad Marchand, despite some uncertainty surrounding his future with the team. General Manager Don Sweeney indicated that while the team is negotiating an extension, they are open to discussions regarding Marchand’s potential trade value. The pressure is on Sweeney to ensure a fruitful reload of the roster, particularly as the trade deadline approaches. Interest from multiple teams including the Colorado Avalanche, Edmonton Oilers, and New Jersey Devils has been noted, suggesting that Marchand could fetch a significant return if the Bruins decide to explore trade options.

Meanwhile, the Columbus Blue Jackets are taking a different approach. GM Don Waddell has emphasized that they are not looking to sell at the deadline, focusing instead on developing their assets. The Blue Jackets may look to add players rather than part with key assets, particularly with Ivan Provorov being described as their best shutdown defenseman. This stance is indicative of a broader strategy aimed at building rather than dismantling their roster.

In a thrilling finish, the Columbus Blue Jackets claimed victory over the Detroit Red Wings 5-3 in the Stadium Series, solidifying their position in the Eastern Conference playoff race. Justin Danforth's late goal at 2:17 of the third period broke a tie, while Adam Fantilli sealed the win with an empty-netter. Columbus, buoyed by a record-setting crowd, now sits at the first wild-card spot, leveraging a stellar performance from Elvis Merzlikins, who made 43 saves. Alex DeBrincat continued his scoring streak for Detroit, but it wasn't enough to fend off the Blue Jackets, who celebrated their franchise's first outdoor game.

Detroit Red Wings fans were left frustrated after a controversial missed high-sticking call allowed Justin Danforth to score the game-winning goal for the Columbus Blue Jackets in the Stadium Series game. Despite outplaying their previous performance, the Red Wings fell short, unable to convert on their chances and struggling defensively. Coach Todd McLellan emphasized the need to eliminate errors and learn how to secure victories, pointing to the overall team responsibility amid the officiating controversies.

The game highlighted issues for Detroit, including missed opportunities and defensive lapses that led to goals against. The Red Wings' lack of execution in critical moments and their inability to respond quickly to opposing shifts ultimately decided the matchup.

The Columbus Blue Jackets made history by hosting their first outdoor NHL game at Ohio Stadium, drawing a massive crowd of 94,751 fans. In a thrilling contest against the Detroit Red Wings, the Blue Jackets emerged victorious with a score of 5-3. Justin Danforth's game-winning goal, alongside 44 saves from Elvis Merzlikins, highlighted the matchup.

Despite being outshot 46 to 21, Columbus showcased resilience, capitalizing on key opportunities. Boone Jenner’s feed to Denton Mateychuk opened the scoring early, and after a brief tie, Columbus rallied back with goals from Dmitri Voronkov and Danforth. The Red Wings, led by Alex DeBrincat, made a late push to tie the game, but Merzlikins and the Blue Jackets held firm, securing a critical win in the playoff race.

The stage was set at Ohio Stadium for an emotionally charged NHL Stadium Series matchup between the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Detroit Red Wings, as both teams came together to honor the late Johnny Gaudreau. The beloved Blue Jackets forward, who tragically lost his life in an accident, was commemorated by his family leading the Blue Jackets' entrance, adorned in jerseys reflecting his legacy. Support for Gaudreau extended throughout the league, with patches on jerseys and special tributes from both teams. The atmosphere was electric with the backdrop of the fierce Michigan-Ohio State rivalry, as thousands braved freezing temperatures to witness a pivotal game in the playoff race.