With Daniil Tarasov currently on the NHL roster, Jet Greaves is carrying more of the workload down in Cleveland. With two games under his belt, he’s holding an 87.0% save percentage and a 4.16GAA. But, he holds a 2-0-0 record thus far, so he’s at least holding his own.
The Monsters are loaded with NHL prospects on defense, led by 2022 first round pick David Jiricek, who has been held pointless through 2 games – but holds a +3 rating. Jake Christiansen returns for a third season in Cleveland, and has two assists already on the season. I would expect him to be the first call-up, should injuries present opportunity at the NHL level.
Marcus Bjork came to North America this fall with NHL aspirations, after signing a free agent contract with the Blue Jackets. But currently he’s playing well in Cleveland, chipping in 1 goal, 2 points and a +2 rating through two games played. Ole Bjorgvik-Holm has yet to appear in a game for the Monsters; while Tim Berni (1gp, 0pts) and Samuel Knazko (2gp, 0pts, +2 rating) round out the Blue Jacket draft picks on the Cleveland roster.
The first goal of the 2022-23 season goes to @monstershockey, courtesy of Kirill Marchenko 🚨 pic.twitter.com/YPYTx4HGFS
— American Hockey League (@TheAHL) October 14, 2022
Up front, there are several players to watch. The most notable of the group, former 2nd round pick Kirill Marchenko, is off to a terrific start. He leads the team with 3 goals and 4 points, and seems to be on a mission to get to the NHL this season. Trey Fix-Wolansky joins him with 4 points (3 assists), while Emil Bemstrom seems to be finding his scoring touch as well, adding 2 goals and 3 points for the Monsters.
Carson Meyer was a surprise cut from the big club, but he’s off to a solid start with 1 goal and 1 assist through 2 games. I think he’s the first call-up when a forward spot opens up with the Blue Jackets – especially in a bottom-six role. If you can catch the Monsters this season, it will be worth your money, as there are several future Blue Jackets on this roster. Do so soon, because chances are, some of these guys will be in the NHL soon, rather than later.