Brandon Dubinsky
A gritty alternate captain for the Blue Jackets who fought hard and led by example from 2012 to 2019.
Brandon Dubinsky is an American former professional ice hockey player who spent seven seasons with the Columbus Blue Jackets after being traded from the New York Rangers. Born in Anchorage, Alaska, he was originally drafted by the Rangers in 2004 before joining Columbus on July 23, 2012. During his tenure with the Blue Jackets, Dubinsky served as an alternate captain starting October 8, 2015, and remained in that role through the 2018–19 season.
- Affiliation
- Columbus Blue Jackets
- Draft Status
- 60th overall in the 2004 NHL entry draft by the Rangers
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Dubinsky arrived in Columbus on July 23, 2012, in a major trade that sent Rick Nash, Steven Delisle, and a conditional third-round pick to the New York Rangers. The deal included Dubinsky, Artem Anisimov, Tim Erixon, and a first-round draft pick in 2013 moving to Columbus, while the conditional third-round pick went from Columbus to New York. During the 2012–13 NHL lockout, Dubinsky kept his skills sharp playing for the Alaska Aces of the ECHL before making his Blue Jackets debut once play resumed. On July 11, 2014, he solidified his commitment to the franchise by signing a six-year, $35.1 million contract extension.
In Their Own Story
On October 8, 2015, Dubinsky was named an alternate captain of the Blue Jackets, taking on a leadership role within the organization. However, his tenure with the 'A' ended abruptly in October 2017 when head coach John Tortorella stripped him of the designation and awarded it to defenceman Jack Johnson. The following month, on December 12, 2017, Dubinsky suffered a severe injury during a fight with Zack Kassian of the Edmonton Oilers. He fractured his orbital bone in the altercation and was subsequently placed on long-term injured reserve, marking a difficult turning point in his final seasons with the team.
Reader's Guide
Fans should note that Dubinsky's leadership role with Columbus was specific; he served as an alternate captain rather than the full-time team captain. His time in Columbus began in July 2012 and concluded prior to his retirement, covering a significant portion of the franchise's growth. While he played left wing in other contexts, the source does not explicitly define his primary position with Columbus, though it highlights his physical play and leadership responsibilities. Key dates for his Blue Jackets career include his trade date (July 23, 2012), his contract extension (July 11, 2014), his appointment as alternate captain (October 8, 2015), the stripping of that role (October 2017), and his injury date (December 12, 2017).
Did You Know?
- Dubinsky scored a Gordie Howe hat trick against the Phoenix Coyotes on November 24, 2008, while still with the Rangers.
- He scored a hat trick in his first World Championships game for Team USA against Norway on May 12, 2008.
- During the 2012–13 NHL lockout, Dubinsky played for the Alaska Aces of the ECHL.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Brandon Dubinsky?
He was a gritty forward who played seven seasons for Columbus after being traded from New York. Born in Alaska, he became a staple of the team's physical identity during his tenure.
When did he join the Blue Jackets organization?
Dubinsky officially joined the club on July 23, 2012, following his selection by the Rangers in 2004. This trade marked the beginning of a significant chapter in his career within Ohio.
What leadership positions did he hold?
He was named an alternate captain on October 8, 2015, leading the team by example for two years. Jack Johnson eventually replaced him in this role during October of 2017.
Did Dubinsky suffer a notable injury?
In December 2017, he fractured an orbital bone while engaging in a fight on the ice. This incident underscored his willingness to engage physically for his teammates.
Why do fans remember him fondly?
Fans cherish him as a hard-working player who led by example from 2012 through 2019. His gritty style and dedication made him an important part of the franchise's history.