Cole Sillinger

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

Sillinger was selected 12th overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2021 NHL entry draft. He was born in Columbus, Ohio, the third son of Karla Sillinger and former NHL forward Mike Sillinger, who played for the Blue Jackets at the time of his birth. Sillinger grew up in Regina, Saskatchewan and represents Hockey Canada.

In Their Own Story

On March 13, 2022, Cole Sillinger etched his name into Blue Jackets history with a defining performance against the Vegas Golden Knights. In a high-scoring 6–4 victory, he recorded his first NHL career hat-trick, showcasing the offensive flair that made him a top prospect. This moment validated the organization's decision to draft him 12th overall just months prior. His progression continued into August 2024, when the Blue Jackets secured his future with a two-year contract extension worth $4.5 million, averaging $2.25 million annually. These milestones reflect a player who has successfully transitioned from a bantam draft pick in 2018 to a key piece of the NHL roster, growing up watching his father play for the very team he now represents.

Reader's Guide

Sillinger played for the Medicine Hat Tigers in the WHL, then was loaned to the Sioux Falls Stampede in the USHL for the 2020–21 season, where he led the team in points and earned USHL Rookie of the Year honors. He scored his first NHL hat-trick on March 13, 2022. On August 21, 2024, he signed a two-year, $4.5 million contract extension with the Blue Jackets.

Did You Know?

• Sillinger was selected 12th overall in the 2021 NHL entry draft by the Columbus Blue Jackets.
• He was born in Columbus, Ohio while his father Mike Sillinger played for the Blue Jackets.
• Sillinger scored his first NHL hat-trick on March 13, 2022 against the Vegas Golden Knights.
• He won USHL Rookie of the Year in 2021 by a unanimous vote.