Columbus Blue Jackets: Four Bold Predictions
By John Gove
Mar 13, 2015; Columbus, OH, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets center Ryan Johansen (19) against the Edmonton Oilers at Nationwide Arena. The Blue Jackets won 5-4 in a shootout. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Dominant Duo in Columbus
Blue Jackets fans need to be excited about Brandon Saad joining the first line with the young star Ryan Johansen. At the young ages of 22 and 23, these two should be elite players in the NHL for many years to come. We are looking at the next power duo and hockey ladies and gentlemen, and we can expect to witness their greatness right away.
Ryan Johansen had himself a coming out party last season for the Blue Jackets and showed the world that he is the best player in Columbus. Although 71 points is a respectable number for any player, I expect Johansen’s point total to take another big leap this season. I predict that he will record over 80 points this season and contend for the Art Ross Trophy.
Jun 13, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Chicago Blackhawks left wing Brandon Saad (20) during the first period at game five of the 2015 Stanley Cup Final at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Many people question whether Brandon Saad will be able to match the production he experienced on a line with Jonathan Toews and Marian Hossa in Chicago. This is a valuable concern, but I am here to say that Saad will not only match it, but he will also surpass it. Saad is going to flourish as someone the Jackets rely upon to put up big numbers. I predict that his point totals will be somewhere between 65 and 70 this season.
With a combined point total of somewhere north of 145, expect Johansen and Saad to contend for the best duo in the NHL this season.
Next: Prediction Three