Christian Jaros returns to NHL with Columbus Blue Jackets after rebuilding form in the KHL
The tall Slovak defenseman Christian Jaros, standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 224 pounds, is making his comeback to the
NHL
after a three-year period in Russia's Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).
Earlier this month, the Columbus Blue Jackets signed him to a one-year, two-way deal for the 2025-26 season, giving him a new chance to prove himself in the top hockey league globally.
Thomas Chabot and Christian Jaros built early chemistry at their first Senators development camp
Jaros's NHL adventure started in 2015 when the Ottawa Senators picked him in the fifth round (139th overall) during the NHL Entry Draft. At that point, his size, speed, and right-handed shot made him a player to watch closely. In the same draft, the Senators also drafted Thomas Chabot 18th overall, and during their initial development camp, the chemistry between them was immediate.
Many considered Jaros a likely long-term partner for Chabot, much like Marc Methot had been for Erik Karlsson.
While Chabot was perfecting his game in junior hockey, Jaros opted for a different journey, developing his talent in Sweden before joining the Belleville Senators, the AHL affiliate of Ottawa. By the 2018-19 season, after Karlsson was traded to San Jose, Jaros looked ready to make his big leap. He played 61 games for Ottawa that year, scoring 10 points (1 goal, 9 assists).
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It seemed like he was about to lock down a consistent role on the Senators' blue line.
You never know what to expect in the NHL. The next season, 2019-20, came with its own set of challenges. The Senators signed veterans Ron Hainsey and Nikita Zaitsev and brought in D.J. Smith as their head coach, which altered their defensive setup. Jaros found himself returning to Belleville to kick off the year. Unfortunately, injuries hit hard, and he was limited to just 47 games between the AHL and NHL.
Columbus Blue Jackets see value in Christian Jaros after strong
KHL development
At 29, Jaros thinks he's in the prime of his career, and the NHL is still the top platform for any hockey player. The Columbus Blue Jackets, aiming to strengthen their defense, recognized the chance in Jaros's special mix of size, talent, and international experience. Earlier this month, they proposed a one-year, two-way contract to him—a deal that allows him to alternate between the NHL and their AHL team, the Cleveland Monsters, based on how he performs and what the team requires.
Blue Jackets President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Don Waddell explained the move: 'Christian brings a unique combination of size and skill to our blue line. His experience in the KHL has helped him develop his game, and we're excited to see what he can bring to our team.' Waddell revealed this to the Blue Jackets' official website, highlighting the team's trust in Jaros's talent.
For Jaros, the return is personal.
'I'm thrilled to be back in North America and to have the opportunity to play for the Blue Jackets,' he told the team's website. 'My goal has always been to play in the NHL. I feel like I'm ready to compete for a spot on the team.'
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Jaros is set to begin the season with the Cleveland Monsters, allowing him to shake off any cobwebs and get used to the North American ice. A solid performance—or an injury at the higher level—could lead to a call-up to Columbus. With a two-way contract in hand, he has some flexibility, and Jaros knows it's on him to take advantage of this chance.
FAQs
Who did Christian Jaros sign with in 2025?
Christian Jaros signed a one-year, two-way contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Which KHL team did Jaros most recently play for?
He played for CSKA Moscow in the KHL.
What is Jaros's height and weight?
He is 6-foot-3 and weighs 224 pounds.
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