On the Verge
David Jiricek, a 20-year-old defenseman, is entering his third professional season since being picked No. 6 in the 2022 NHL Draft. He is yet to secure a permanent spot with the Blue Jackets. Last season, he recorded 10 points in 43 NHL games and 19 points in 29 AHL games, showcasing a mixed performance with a team-worst minus-16 rating in Cleveland. During the Calder Cup Playoff, he tallied 11 points in 14 games.
Transitioning to Denton Mateychuk, the 19-year-old defenseman had a remarkable training camp last season and could be ready for the NHL. Post his time with Moose Jaw, where he scored 75 points in 52 games, he joined the AHL’s Cleveland team and added three assists in four playoff games. His talent is evident, but there’s no rush to push him too quickly into the NHL.
Cayden Lindstrom, an 18-year-old forward drafted fourth overall in 2024, may get a chance to make the Blue Jackets roster. Last season, he notched 46 points in 32 games for Medicine Hat in the WHL. With his size and skills, Lindstrom has the potential to be a dominant force, though returning to Medicine Hat for further development is likely.
