The order has been determined for the lottery picks in the 2025 NHL Draft, and teams that did not make the playoffs know where they will be picking. The Columbus Blue Jackets, who possess the 14th overall pick (as well as the Minnesota Wild’s first round pick) have a great opportunity ahead of them.
Coming into the season, they were expected to be a bottom-feeder. The tragedy of the Gaudreau brothers seemed to galvanize the team, and they were in contention for a playoff spot until the very end of the season. Now, the Jackets have a chance to use the NHL Draft to stock an already impressive prospect pool. Check out these Ohio sports betting promos and get ready for next season of NHL.
Players the Columbus Blue Jackets Could Be Targeting
The nice thing for the Blue Jackets is that they already know where both picks fall. Their own pick came in at #14 in the draft lottery, plus they have the 20th overall pick from the Minnesota Wild. These are just a few of the names the Blue Jackets could be targeting with their first-round picks.
Lyden Lakovic, LW, Moose Jaw Warriors
If there is a pressing need that the Blue Jackets could address, it is at left wing. The Blue Jackets could fill a hole and gain a top-level prospect in the process. Lakovic has great size at 6’4” 190, and outstanding skating for someone his size.
His shot is outstanding and that frame could become an asset at protecting the puck. The Jackets have a litany of centers that should become key pieces for the franchise, now Lakovic has the chance to become the best left-wing prospect in the organization.
Malcolm Spence, LW, Erie Otters
If the Blue Jackets are specifically targeting left wing with the 14th pick and Lakovic is off the board, Spence could be a fine consolation prize. He has sturdy size at 6’2” 200, and plays a strong two-way game, showing a strong compete level that is tough to create at the next level.
His ceiling may not be as high as Lakovic, but his floor may be higher. Plus, it is tough to find defensively responsible wingers at this age, and Spence could step in right away and not be a liability in his own end. Addressing a key area of need is just the icing on the cake.
Joshua Ravensbergen, G, Prince George
This would be an interesting pick given the emergence of Jet Greaves at the end of the season, plus Evan Gardner being potentially interesting prospects in Sergei Ivanov and Evan Gardner waiting in the wings.
The top ranked North American goaltender, Ravensbergen is huge, has great athleticism, and strong technique. He would be the clear top prospect among the Blue Jackets’ goaltending group, someone who could take the helm 2-4 years down the line.
Jackson Smith, D, Tri-City
Because they have two picks in the first round, the Blue Jackets can not only address their lack of depth at the left wing position but add to their depth defensively. It is highly expected that they will use at least one of those picks on a defenseman, though it depends who is available at 14 and 20.
Smith is a good skater, capable of leading the rush through the neutral zone. Smith has shown potential to be a power play quarterback, to man the penalty kill, and to lead the charge while in transition. The Blue Jackets need more depth on the back end and Smith would be an excellent fit.
Kashawn Aitcheson, D, Barrie
Tough, physical defensemen are tough to come by in the NHL. Ones that can also skate and add a touch of offense are even tougher to find. Aitcheson could be a fantastic addition to an already impressive array of young defensive talent and could stand out as a throwback heavy hitter.
He’s aggressive yet smart, impressing in Barrie while playing against the toughest competition each night. Though he may not be the premium right-handed shot that front offices crave, he projects as a quality, physical, tough-to-play-against top four defenseman at the next level.
Taking the Best Player Available
The Blue Jackets definitely have a need when it comes to depth at left wing, but they really don’t have a pressing need. They have a few high-quality prospects at center and defense in the pipeline, so they have an opportunity to choose the best player available here.
Every team could stand to not only get more talented, but nastier as well. Choosing someone like Aitcheson could be a good play because he won’t be pressed into action any time soon and will have time to develop. The Blue Jackets have a unique opportunity here and should only add to one of the best prospect pools in the league.
