The Columbus Blue Jackets and forward Cole Sillinger have reached a settlement, avoiding arbitration, according to Elliotte Friedman on both Twitter and Bluesky.
Sillinger, 23, is a center for the Blue Jackets and has emerged as a reliable middle-six forward. In the 2025-26 season, he recorded 8 goals, 25 assists, and 33 points in 81 games, with one power-play point and a +2 rating. Over his career, he has played 367 games, tallying 51 goals, 89 assists, and 140 points.
Friedman reported the details of the settlement as three payments of $4.625 million. No additional information was provided in subsequent reports, and there was no contradiction in the accounts.
The settlement ensures Sillinger remains with the Blue Jackets, providing depth and scoring potential from the middle of the lineup. The team now has stability in their forward group as they look ahead to the upcoming season.