Columbus Blue Jackets Assign Former First Round Pick Gabriel Carlsson to Cleveland
By Grant Miller
The Columbus Blue Jackets assigned 2015 first round pick Gabriel Carlsson to the AHL Cleveland Monsters. Carlsson comes to Cleveland via the Swedish Hockey League. This was Carlsson’s second full season in the Swedish League.
The Columbus Blue Jackets added some defensive fire power to their American Hockey League affiliate Tuesday. Top prospect Gabriel Carlsson will be suiting up for the Monsters as they get ready to defend their Calder Cup. Carlsson has played two full seasons in the top Swedish league. He went 2-2-4 this year over the span of 40 games.
Columbus Blue Jackets
General manager Jarmo Kekalainen has a keen eye for European talent. Carlsson has graced the top of prospects list since he got drafted 29th overall by the CBJ in 2015. People that know Swedish hockey better than me are high on this kid. The last two years he was one of the youngest guys on his team. I think a move to the AHL might open up his game a bit. Having him play close by will allow Jarmo and company get a better look at him as well as get used to North American ice.
The Monsters are on a six game winning streak. They are surging into playoff position as the regular season draws to a close. Carlsson could be an impact late addition to the squad like Zach Werenski was last year. I encourage any Jacket fans in the Cleveland area to go out and watch this team skate live if you haven’t already.
If Carlsson has a productive end to the AHL season expect him to make a push for the big league squad out of camp next fall. I expect Carlsson to be in Cleveland for the bulk of the 2017-2018 season and be the next man up when Jack Johnson’s contract expires at the end of next year. Having quality young talent right up the road in Cleveland is something the front office has made a priority in recent years. Carlsson is another great young asset to have close to home.