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3 disappointing Columbus Blue Jackets players who are bounce-back candidates for next season feat. Johhny Gaudreau

Modified Aug 05, 2024 02:37 GMT

The Columbus Blue Jackets had a difficult season last year, underperforming during former coach Pascal Vincent’s brief tenure. While there were some bright spots with the development of players like Adam Fantilli and Kirill Marchenko, some Columbus Blue Jackets players didn't live up to expectations.

So, let’s take a look at three Columbus Blue Jackets players who should greatly benefit from new coach Dean Evason’s influence and direction this upcoming season.

Three disappointing Columbus Blue Jackets players who are bounce-back candidates for 2024-25

#3 Boone Jenner

The Columbus Blue Jackets captain has had several injury-riddled seasons. The last time Jenner played a full season was in 2018-19 when he suited up for 77 games. Since then, he played 70 games during 2019-20 and a high of 68 in 2022-23.

Last season Jenner appeared in 58 contests, registering 22 goals and 35 points. While not a terrible season, the Blue Jackets would like to get more from their captain. But there’s hope that this year Jenner can play close to a full season.

If that’s the case, Jenner could easily top the 20-goal mark for the fourth season in a row. Hopefully, Evason’s influence can help the veteran forward approach the 30-goal plateau.

#2 Kent Johnson

Johnson continues to be a promising young forward. The former fifth-overall pick from 2021 had a very good first year, notching up 40 points in 79 games. However, last season was tough for Johnson, as a season-ending should injury kept him to just 42 games, managing 16 points

However, Johnson appears to have fully recovered from shoulder surgery and should be ready for training camp in the fall. Now completely recovered, he should build on his solid rookie campaign, potentially breaking the 20-goal mark and 50-point plateau.

#3 Johnny Gaudreau

Johnny Hockey exploded for a 115-point season during his last year with the Calgary Flames in 2021-22. After signing a lucrative free-agent deal with the Columbus Blue Jackets during the 2022 offseason, Gaudreau regressed to 74 points.

Last season, Gaudreau’s totals plummeted to 12 goals and 60 points. But the new coach bump should help him boost his play, hopefully getting back to at least the 20-goal plateau. While another 100-point season may be unlikely, Gaudreau still possesses the skills to be a legitimate top-line NHL forward.

Moreover, the addition of Sean Monahan, who figures to center the top line, should provide Gaudreau with a solid No. 1 center to play with. That should allow Gaudreau to rekindle the spark that made him a star during his time in Calgary.