Blue Jackets Bolster Prospect Pool with Strategic NHL Draft Moves
The Columbus Blue Jackets navigated the second day of the NHL Draft with a flurry of activity, making multiple trades and selections to add depth to their burgeoning prospect pipeline. After selecting defenseman Jackson Smith and goaltender Pyotr Andreyanov on day one, the team focused on acquiring future assets and identifying potential long-term contributors.
A Busy Day of Wheeling and Dealing
The Blue Jackets entered the day without picks in the second and third rounds, having previously traded those selections away. They initially held picks 109, 160, 173, 205, and 218, but quickly demonstrated a willingness to be active on the trade market. “We wouldn’t be surprised to see them try to move up at some point,” one observer noted, reflecting the team’s apparent ambition.
The first significant move saw the Blue Jackets trade pick #109, along with a 2026 fourth-round pick, to the Detroit Red Wings in exchange for pick #76. This aggressive move allowed them to select a player they clearly had targeted.
Round 3: Adding Defensive Solidity with Malte Vass
With the newly acquired pick #76, the Blue Jackets selected Swedish defender Malte Vass. The 6’2”, nearly 200-pound blueliner is highly regarded for his defensive acumen. He’s described as a good skater with strong gap control and a physical presence. Vass is committed to Boston University this fall, providing the Jackets with the opportunity to monitor his development within the North American collegiate system.
Rounds 5 & 6: Upside and Potential
The Blue Jackets continued to add to their prospect pool in the later rounds. They utilized the fifth-round pick (acquired in the trade that sent Daniil Tarasov to the Florida Panthers) to select center Owen Griffin of the Oshawa Generals (OHL) at #160. Griffin, listed at 5’10” and 172 pounds, is considered a talented scorer with a strong work ethic. Though still a developing player, having just turned 18 in April, he possesses considerable upside.
Just 13 picks later, at #173, the Blue Jackets went back to the blue line, selecting Swedish defenseman Victor Hedin Raftheim. The 6’4”, 190-pound defenseman is a raw prospect, but boasts projectable traits as an offensive defenseman. As one of the youngest players available in the draft, Hedin Raftheim represents a long-term investment.
Round 7: A Trade for Offensive Flair
The Blue Jackets weren’t finished maneuvering. They packaged their two seventh-round picks (#205 and #218) to move up seven spots to #198, where they selected center Jeremy Loranger from the Sherwood Park Crusaders (BCHL). Loranger, an undersized but highly productive forward, tallied an impressive 40 goals and 105 points in 54 games this season. He’s described as a creative offensive player with a good shot and elusiveness, and is committed to the University of Nebraska-Omaha.
Beyond the Draft: Continued Roster Evaluation
While the draft provided a boost to the team’s future, the Blue Jackets remain focused on improving their current roster. The team is reportedly still seeking a top-six winger and adjustments to their defensive corps, with potential sweeping changes also possible in goal. Despite not securing a major trade during the draft weekend, the organization continues to explore all options.
Even if further changes to the NHL roster don’t materialize immediately, the Blue Jackets’ busy week – including the acquisition of Charlie Coyle and Miles Wood from the Colorado Avalanche – demonstrates a clear commitment to building a competitive team for the future. The team will continue to evaluate opportunities as they look to add pieces that can contribute to long-term success.
