The Columbus Blue Jackets are heading into the 2025 NHL Entry Draft with a significant advantage: two first-round draft picks. This provides General Manager Don Waddell with a multitude of options to bolster the team's roster, whether through drafting promising young talent or leveraging the picks to acquire more immediate help. With the draft just around the corner, the Blue Jackets' strategy is a hot topic of discussion.
Columbus possesses the 14th and 20th overall selections. The 20th pick was acquired from the Minnesota Wild in a trade that sent defensive prospect David Jiricek to Minnesota. Having two picks within the top 20 gives the Blue Jackets considerable flexibility. They could use both to select prospects, trade one or both for current roster players, or even trade up in the draft order if they have their eye on a specific player.
Waddell has publicly stated that he is open to trading one or both of the first-round picks to acquire players who can contribute to the team's success in the upcoming 2025-26 season. The Blue Jackets narrowly missed the playoffs this past season and are looking to take the next step toward becoming a consistent contender. This approach suggests a willingness to sacrifice future assets for immediate improvement. The team's young core showed promise and the organization wants to build on that momentum.
If the Blue Jackets opt to keep both picks, several intriguing prospects could be available. Mock drafts and prospect rankings suggest a range of players who might fit the team's needs. Defensemen like Jackson Smith, Kashawn Aitcheson, and Radim Mrtka have been mentioned as potential targets. Smith is noted as a potentially high-upside player with a strong two-way game, while Aitcheson is known for his physicality and offensive capabilities. Mrtka is another option with good defensive skills.
On the forward side, Justin Carbonneau and Malcolm Spence are names to watch. Carbonneau is a creative and skilled offensive player. Spence is viewed as a potentially reliable middle-six winger. Another potential target could be Carter Bear, known for his work ethic and scoring ability.
One particularly interesting option for the Blue Jackets could be goaltender Joshua Ravensbergen. Considered the top goalie prospect in the draft, Ravensbergen has the potential to be a franchise netminder. While goalies typically take longer to develop, his upside could be too enticing to pass up, especially for a team that needs long-term stability in net.
Ultimately, the Blue Jackets' decision will likely depend on how the draft unfolds and what trade opportunities arise. They could target specific needs such as defense or goaltending, or simply select the best players available on their board. The draft is considered somewhat top-heavy this year, with a clear separation between the top prospects and those selected later in the first round. This could influence the Blue Jackets to trade up if they believe a potential star is within reach.
No matter which path they choose, the Columbus Blue Jackets are in a favorable position heading into the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. The two first-round picks provide them with valuable assets to improve their team, both now and in the future. The coming weeks will be crucial as they evaluate their options and determine the best course of action to achieve their goals.
