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4 Columbus Blue Jackets to Watch in the 2018 Preseason Opener

By Lansing Murphy

CHICAGO, IL - SEPTEMBER 23: Vitaly Abramov #79 of the Columbus Blue Jackets advances the puck against the Chicago Blackhawks during a preseason game at the United Center on September 23, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. The Blue Jackets defeated the Blackhawks 3-2. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - SEPTEMBER 23: Vitaly Abramov #79 of the Columbus Blue Jackets advances the puck against the Chicago Blackhawks during a preseason game at the United Center on September 23, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. The Blue Jackets defeated the Blackhawks 3-2. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /
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Vitaly Abramov

Columbus Blue Jackets
CHICAGO, IL – SEPTEMBER 23: Vitaly Abramov /

Jackets fans have been waiting for Vitaly to step out on the ice in union blue for more than two years. Ever since the Russian winger won the QMJHL scoring title and MVP, Jackets fans have been wondering when he was going to make the NHL.

Although he came close last season, this seems to be the time for Abramov to take the next step. He has been limited as he recovers from a wrist injury, but he will have his chances to shine against the Buffalo Sabres.

Abramov will line up with big center Sam Vigneault and a winger that he is likely competing with for one of the last wing spots, Markus Hannikainen. Markus has an experience edge over Abramov, but not a skill edge.

Related Story. Why Vitaly Abramov will start the year in the NHL. light

Abramov has shown elite scoring ability and incredible playmaking through his career and he isn’t shy about saying he expects to play in the NHL. The question is can he handle the physical play of the NHL and be as strong on and off of the puck as he needs to be to be an everyday player?

Keep an eye on Abramov when he doesn’t have the puck. We know he is special when the puck is on his stick but Coach John Tortorella and company will be looking to see how he plays when the action is away from him.

If Abramov plays well defensively and contributes more than just with his puck prowess, you might be looking at your next great Blue Jacket scoring winger.

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