In the System: April 2024 Prospective Review
It’s been a while since we’ve last caught up on Columbus prospects across the hockey world, and there’s a mix of positive and negative developments. The encouraging news is that several of these prospects seem poised to make a significant impact on the main team in the near future.
Gavin Brindley (RW) – University of Michigan (NCAA)
2023 2nd round pick
25 goals, 28 assists, 53 points in 39 games
PPG (Points Per Game) in 2022-23: 0.93
PPG in 2023-24: 1.36
Gavin, the 2023 second-round pick for the Blue Jackets, has had an outstanding season. He contributed to Team USA’s gold medal win at the World Juniors and recently earned recognition as the Big Ten Ice Hockey Player of the Year. With Michigan’s advancement to the Frozen Four, Gavin’s performance remains impressive, indicating his potential to transition to the professional level soon.
Jordan Dumais (RW) – Halifax Mooseheads (QMJHL)
2022 3rd round pick
16 goals, 31 assists, 47 points in 21 games
PPG in 2022-23: 2.19
PPG in 2023-24: 2.24
Unfortunately, injuries and off-ice issues, including a DUI arrest and subsequent suspension, have plagued Dumais’ season with the Halifax Mooseheads. His availability for the playoffs is uncertain due to a potential re-aggravation of a lower-body injury. Dumais will need a focused offseason to rebound and prepare for the professional ranks.
Sergei Ivanov (G) – Admiral Vladivostok (KHL)
2022 5th round pick
.929 save percentage, 2.53 goals against average in 37 games
Ivanov continues to impress with his performance in the KHL, despite Admiral Vladivostok missing the playoffs. With one more year left on his contract, Ivanov is unlikely to join North American leagues next season.
Denton Mateychuk (D) – Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)
2022 1st round pick
17 goals, 58 assists, 75 points in 52 games
PPG in 2022-23: 1.03
PPG in 2023-24: 1.44
Mateychuk’s strong play in the WHL suggests he could be a contender for the Blue Jackets’ roster next season, especially if there are roster changes over the summer. He’s demonstrated versatility and work ethic, earning praise from analysts for his potential as a second-pairing defenseman.
Luca Pinelli (C) – Ottawa 67’s (OHL)
2023 4th round pick
48 goals, 34 assists, 82 points in 68 games
PPG in 2022-23: 0.94
PPG in 2023-24: 1.21
Pinelli’s breakout season with the Ottawa 67’s showcases his offensive prowess, leading all Columbus prospects in points. While likely to spend another season in the OHL, Pinelli’s performance is certainly one to watch.
William Whitelaw (C) – University of Wisconsin (NCAA)
2023 3rd round pick
10 goals, 7 assists, 17 points in 37 games
PPG in 2022-23 (USHL): 0.98
PPG in 2023-24: 0.46
Whitelaw has faced challenges in his first year at Wisconsin, and his future remains uncertain as he has entered the transfer portal. His next destination will determine his trajectory for next season.
Max McCue (C) – London Knights (OHL)
Signed as a free agent
27 goals, 34 assists, 61 points in 62 games
PPG in 2022-23: 0.67
PPG in 2023-24: 0.98
The recent signing of McCue adds depth to the Blue Jackets’ pipeline. Known for his physical play, McCue is expected to make an impact in Cleveland next season after a successful stint with the London Knights in the OHL playoffs.
Each prospect offers unique promise, and their performances will be closely monitored as they potentially make the leap to Cleveland or Columbus.
