Columbus Blue Jackets Prepare for NHL Draft

The Columbus Blue Jackets are gearing up for the NHL draft, with a potential pick at No. 14 overall.

What are the options for the Blue Jackets?

Oscar Hemming, a 6-4, 204-pound center from Finland, has risen to the top of consensus draft rankings, with six of 10 mock drafts listing him as a potential fit for the Blue Jackets.

He dominated the junior ranks in Finland two seasons ago and played 19 games at Boston College last year, posting eight points as the youngest player in college hockey.

Why is Hemming a strong candidate?

Hemming's combination of size and ability makes him an attractive pick for the Blue Jackets, who are looking to add depth to their roster.

Corey Pronman of The Athletic projects Hemming to be picked by the Blue Jackets, citing his physicality and talent as a key factor.

What other players are in the mix?

Malte Gustafsson, a big Swedish defenseman, has also been rising up draft projections after his showing at the NHL Combine, but may be gone by the time the Jackets pick.

The Blue Jackets' GM, Don Waddell, has stated that he is open to a potential trade to help the team win now, adding an element of uncertainty to the draft.

Adam Fantilli, Kirill Marchenko, and Sean Monahan are among the key players on the Blue Jackets' roster, with Hemming potentially fitting in with this group.

The NHL draft is a crucial moment for the Blue Jackets, as they look to build on their current roster and make a push for the playoffs.

The team's selection of goalie Pyotr Andreyanov at No. 20 last season was a surprise, highlighting the unpredictability of the draft.

As the draft approaches, the Blue Jackets will be closely watching the top prospects, including Hemming and Gustafsson.

The team's fans will be eagerly awaiting the announcement of their pick, hoping that it will be a player who can make an immediate impact.

With the draft just around the corner, the Columbus Blue Jackets are preparing for a crucial moment in their offseason, one that could shape the future of the team.

The Blue Jackets' pick at No. 14 will be closely watched, as fans and analysts alike speculate about who the team will choose.