From Trail to the NHL—How the Trail Smoke Eaters Helped Shape Two Columbus Blue Jackets

The City of Trail, BC lives and breathes hockey. With a rich tradition and a community that shows up every night, Trail has long been a place where big-league dreams take root. For Kent Johnson and Steve McCarthy, two familiar names in the Columbus Blue Jackets organization, that dream started in the orange and black of the Trail Smoke Eaters—a Junior A hockey organization with a proud history and a knack for developing top-tier talent.

Kent Johnson—The Creative Force Who Lit Up the BCHL

If you saw Johnson play for the Smoke Eaters, you knew he was something special. His hockey sense, hands, and vision stood out. In 2019-20, Johnson topped the BCHL with 101 points—41 goals and 60 assists—and was named league MVP. He also became the first Smoke Eater ever to win the CJHL’s Top Forward award. That breakout year turned heads. In 2021, he was selected 5th overall by Columbus in the NHL Draft, making him one of the highest-picked BCHL players ever. Now a rising star in the NHL, Johnson brings flash, finesse, and a healthy dose of Trail grit to every game. He hasn’t just made it—he’s carrying a piece of Trail with him every shift.

Steve McCarthy—Hometown Product, NHL Coach

McCarthy’s connection to Trail runs deep. He didn’t just play for the Smoke Eaters—he grew up around the rink, with the dream of one day reaching the pros. In the 1996–97 season, McCarthy suited up for his hometown team and delivered a record-setting year as a defenseman—most goals, assists, and points from the blue line. He also earned BCHL Interior’s Top Defenceman honours. From there, he captained the Kootenay Ice, and was drafted 23rd overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in 1999. He went on to play in over 300 NHL games, with stops in Chicago, Vancouver, and Atlanta. These days, McCarthy is behind the bench as an assistant coach with the Columbus Blue Jackets—bringing both his pro experience and small-town roots to the Blue Jackets.

The Trail Smoke Eaters—Pipeline to the Pros

The Trail Smoke Eaters have long been more than just a junior team. They’re part of the fabric of the city, and a vital step for young players hoping to take their game to the next level. Johnson and McCarthy are two standout examples, but they’re not alone. Trail has continued to be a legit hockey pipeline, where young talent is molded in front of passionate crowds and tough road games. For many players, it’s where raw potential turns into real opportunity.

Trail, BC—Serious Hockey Pedigree

Trail, BC is a place where the game is still personal, still pure. Walk into Cominco Arena on a game night and you’ll see it: families in the stands, kids lining up for autographs, and alumni who still drop by when they’re home. The town’s love for the Smoke Eaters is real—and that kind of support leaves a lasting impact. Players don’t just leave Trail with more skill—they leave with character.

Trail’s NHL Legacy, Still Growing

As the Blue Jackets continue building toward a new chapter, they’ve got two key contributors with Trail roots. Kent Johnson, one of the league’s most exciting young forwards. And Steve McCarthy, a calm, experienced voice behind the bench. Different paths, same junior hockey town. Their stories are proof that big things can come from small hockey towns—and that when Trail players reach the NHL, they bring their hometown with them.