The 2007–08 Columbus Blue Jackets season began October 5, 2007. It was the Blue Jackets' eighth season in the National Hockey League (NHL). Key dates prior to the start of the season: * The 2007 NHL Entry Draft took place in Columbus, Ohio, on June 22–23 * The free agency period began on July 1. * The Blue Jackets played 8 preseason games starting September 16.