The Columbus Blue Jackets entered the 2024 NHL Entry Draft with a top-end prospect pool and a new GM, Don Waddell. Questions about how Waddell felt about some, or perhaps most, prospects would soon be answered. Many of the Blue Jackets' prospects are on the smaller side, so Waddell drafted bigger players, starting at 6-foot-3 and up. So, how should this draft class be viewed, and what does it mean for the future of Columbus hockey? While it will take a few years to see the full impact, the Blue Jackets have strengthened an already strong prospect pool.
Cayden Lindstrom was the Blue Jackets' first pick at fourth overall—a dynamic center who should settle in nicely on the Blue Jackets' second line. Lindstrom plays with a chip on his shoulder and a lot of grit and snarl, like his now-teammate and last year's Columbus first-round draft pick, Adam Fantilli. Center ice is no longer a concern for Columbus, who can soon roll with Fantilli, Lindstrom, Cole Sillinger, and Dmitri Voronkov.
Defenseman Charlie Elick, who many had as a first-round pick, slipped to the second round, and the Blue Jackets gladly selected him. While he needs to be more consistent in carrying the puck, Elick has many characteristics that point to a future NHL defensive player.
The hockey gods once again shined on Columbus when defenseman Luca Marrelli, another player projected as a late first or early second-round draft pick, fell to Columbus in round three, where Waddell pounced. Marrelli has poise and instincts that make him valuable. He does lack some skill to be in a top-four role but projects as a reliable NHL defenseman.
Seventeen-year-old Tanner Henricks is another defenseman taken by Columbus. While he has some good skills, it will be a while before he is ready. Luke Ashton is a 6-foot-7 defenseman who improved his offensive game this season and will get more developmental time.
Goalie Evan Gardner projects as a future starter in the net. While at 6-foot-2, Gardner lacks ideal size, his play makes up for that. He tracks the puck at an elite level but struggles with controlling rebounds.
Don Waddell’s first Columbus Blue Jackets draft class was heavy on defense, with size a priority. Cayden Lindstrom should compete for a roster spot, although a stint in the AHL would not be the end of the world. This is a solid class, and the Blue Jackets have added size, grit, and a competitive edge to a flourishing pool of prospects.
Photo Credit: NHL
