Some Positive Signs For The Columbus Blue Jackets

This season for the Columbus Blue Jackets is all about young players taking a step forward in their development while starting to win more games and accumulate more points. Columbus has played well in the early stages of the season, and young players are taking the reins and driving the play. The Blue Jackets' game pace has been excellent, as has the performance of their young players.

Kent Johnson looks like a completely different player. He has been much stronger on the puck and is using his speed to consistently create separation from defenders. Last season, Johnson struggled with confidence and was sent to the Cleveland Monsters to regain his form. This season, he had a strong training camp, and it has carried over into the regular season.

Yegor Chinakhov, who had a solid season last year, looks like he's ready to break out. Chinakhov has developed a strong two-way game, and with his elite speed, he's a threat every time he touches the puck. It wouldn’t be surprising if this turns out to be his breakout campaign, as the young winger’s game has improved every season.

Jake Christiansen has been a solid defensive partner for Damon Severson. Christiansen moves the puck with ease, which is not always easy for young defensemen. He is dependable at both ends of the ice, and as long as his play remains consistent, it should only be a matter of time before he sees time on special teams, both the penalty kill and power play.

Adam Fantilli, who finished last season on injured reserve, has come back looking bigger and faster. Fantilli is always around the puck and even stronger on it this season. While it may be a stretch to say a player of his caliber could have a breakout, it’s more accurate to say he is living up to his potential. Fantilli is still developing, but his game is already well-rounded.

Kirill Marchenko is another player poised for a breakout season. After finishing last season with 23 goals, marking two consecutive seasons with at least 20 goals, Marchenko has picked up where he left off—two goals, four assists, and six points in week one of NHL regular season play. Marchenko seems like a player who will score 30 goals sooner rather than later.

The Columbus Blue Jackets are counting on their young players to start driving play, and that’s exactly what’s happening early in the season. Now, we wait to see if consistency follows.