The 5 Prospects That Will Define the Future of the Columbus Blue Jackets

0 Sara Smith September 17, 2025

The Columbus Blue Jackets are a team in transition, and all eyes are on their burgeoning prospect pool. As we head into the 2025-26 season, the question on everyone’s mind is: who will be the next generation of stars to lead this team to glory? We’re taking a closer look at the top 5 prospects who have the potential to make a major impact in the coming years.

The Next Wave of Talent

At the top of the list is Cayden Lindstrom, a towering forward with a unique blend of size and skill. After missing the entire 2024-25 regular season with a back injury, Lindstrom is poised for a breakout year with Michigan State. His brief but impressive return in the WHL playoffs showcased his top-end potential, and he’s on track for a 2026-27 NHL arrival.

Next up is defenseman Jackson Smith, a smooth-skating blueliner with a big frame. The Blue Jackets were thrilled to land him at No. 14 in the 2025 draft, and his elite skating ability has scouts buzzing. Smith is heading to Penn State to hone his skills against tougher competition, and he could be making his NHL debut as early as 2026-27.

In goal, the Blue Jackets have a potential game-changer in Pyotr Andreyanov. The first goalie taken in a deep 2025 draft class, Andreyanov has been dominant in Russia’s junior leagues. While he’s signed in the KHL for the next five seasons, the wait could be well worth it if he develops into the elite netminder Columbus is hoping for.

Rounding out the top five are forwards Luca Del Bel Belluz and Jordan Dumais. Del Bel Belluz already has a taste of NHL action, scoring in his debut last season. He’s expected to start the year in the AHL but is a prime candidate for a call-up. Dumais, a shifty and offensively gifted forward, is also developing in the AHL and could be a dark horse to watch this season.