On October 7, 2000, Columbus would play in their first game ever, losing 5–3 to the
Chicago Blackhawks at
Nationwide Arena.
Bruce Gardiner scored the first goal in franchise history. On October 14, the Blue Jackets became part of hockey history. In a loss against the
Colorado Avalanche, goaltender
Patrick Roy tied
Terry Sawchuk for most career wins by a goaltender. The Blue Jackets would win their first ever game on October 12, defeating the
Calgary Flames 3–2 at the
Pengrowth Saddledome. Columbus would win its first home game on October 27, defeating the visiting
Washington Capitals 3–1. The Blue Jackets, like most expansion teams, would struggle throughout the season, and would finish the year 11 games under .500, with a 28–39–9–6 record, earning 71 points, 19 points behind the
Vancouver Canucks for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference.
Geoff Sanderson would lead the Jackets with 30 goals and 56 points, while
Espen Knutsen would lead Columbus with 44 assists.
Steve Heinze was having a solid season, scoring 22 goals and 42 points, before being dealt to the
Buffalo Sabres at the trade deadline.
Jamie Heward led the blue line, scoring 11 goals and 27 points, while
Deron Quint would score 7 goals and 23 points.
Tyler Wright led the club with 140 penalty minutes.
Ron Tugnutt would get the majority of action in the Blue Jackets net, playing in 53 games, and tying a career high with 22 wins. Tugnutt would record a 2.44
goals against average (GAA), .917 save percentage and four shutouts.
Marc Denis backed up Tugnutt, winning six games and recording a 3.25 GAA.
Season standings ==Schedule and results==