We all know about star prospect Pierre-Luc Dubois, but the Columbus Blue Jackets have another young center to keep an eye on.
Kevin Stenlund, a 2015 draft pick of the Columbus Blue Jackets, elevated his stock over the past year playing in Sweden. He skated for the HV71 of the Swedish Hockey League, winning the league championship with them this spring.
In 48 regular season games, Stenlund contributed 20 points this past year (13 goals, 7 assists) for HV71. He added 10 points (4 goals, 6 assists) in 16 playoff games en route to the title.
Being a 2nd round draft pick, it was clear Stenlund had upside. The timing of his development, though, is huge for the Blue Jackets.
No doubt about it for me, Kevin #Stenlund (#CBJ) is one #NHL prospect who took some of the biggest steps in development this past season
— Chapin Landvogt (@Csomichapin) April 28, 2017
One plalyer who impressed me was center Kevin Stenlund. Always seemed to have puck. Set up several great chances. Did miss an open net, tho.
— Tom Reed (@treed1919) June 30, 2017
Impacting the organization
In an interview at development camp, Stenlund said he won’t be playing in North America this year. He’ll stay in Sweden and defend his title with HV71.
Even though he’s not touching NHL ice this year, it’s that much easier to shake off the pressure of trading for a high-end player.
EliteProspects describes Stenlund as, “An intelligent, big-bodied center with superb puckhandling ability.” They went on to add, “He thinks the game at a high level,” and noted his ability to utilize the physical aspect of the game.
If staying in Sweden allows Stenlund to continue developing at the pace he is, he’ll compete for a spot in the NHL in 2018-19.
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Looking ahead
Centers have been a topic of conversation in Columbus ever since Ryan Johansen was traded last January to Nashville.
If all goes well, the Columbus Blue Jackets could have three centers who stay for a while. Alexander Wennberg, Pierre-Luc Dubois and Kevin Stenlund all have the potential to be game changers for years to come.
Soon, the problem may be not having enough room for everyone, rather than not having enough talent like previous years. However, it’s no guarantee that all prospects pan out. The potential, though, is exciting, especially for a team that still has yet to win a playoff series.
The rise of the Columbus Blue Jackets will come down to many young players like Kevin Stenlund. Here’s to hoping we see plays like this in the NHL sooner rather than later.