Cam Atkinson
Another player who quietly had an impressive year scoring was Cam Atkinson. The Columbus Blue Jackets winger dealt with injuries last season and only played in 65 out of 82 games. It was the first time in five seasons that Cam hasn’t played at least 78 games.
Even though he didn’t play a full season, he still impressed with 46 points in 65 games including going on a tear over the final 33 games of the season. Cam averaged a point per game over the last stretch and helped push the Jackets toward the playoffs.
Atkinson also had a great showing at the World Championships for Team USA. He scored 11 points in 10 games, good for second on the team, and helped lead the red, white, and blue to a third place finish.
Cam has quietly been one of the best wingers in the NHL over the last three seasons and this year might be the year where he starts to get the national attention he deserves. Atkinson should be eyeing another 30 goal season and easily break the 50 point mark.
Jackets with 50 Point Potential
These guys are all but locks to break 50 points this year. There are several other players who have the potential to as well including the Captain Nick Foligno who has accomplished the feat twice. Pierre-Luc Dubois almost broke 50 points as a rookie last season.
Josh Anderson is a dark horse candidate to break 50 points as well. He has put up 30 points in the last two seasons and might be able to break out this year, his third full season in the NHL.
Offense will be up this year for the Jackets. After only having two players break the 50 point threshold in 2018, expect at least four to break that mark this year.