Blue Jackets prospect watch, Evan Jardine is making a name for himself in Columbus

It turns out the Blue Jackets may not be the only Columbus hockey team that will be worth watching for the 5th Line this season.

After being drafted with the Blue Jackets fourth-round pick in this past draft, Evan Jardine is playing his first year of college hockey, and is impressing with the Ohio State Buckeyes just a few miles away from Nationwide Arena.

Evan Jardine is making a great first impression

In six games for the Buckeyes so far, Jardine has three goals, which is tied for the team high, and seven points, which puts him completely at the top.

He's been a confident playmaker so far, and has looked very dangerous on the Ohio State power play so far this year. On Friday night, he made a nifty move in close quarters and buried a clutch goal late in the third period before unfortunately losing in overtime.

Playing hockey in Ohio is nothing new for the Michigan native, who spent the last two years in Youngstown playing for the Phantoms in the USHL.

In his junior hockey career with the Phantoms, he scored 54 goals and 116 points in 127 games. His offensive skill was apparent on draft day, and he's proving that he can keep it up against better competition.

Jardine just turned 19 a few days ago, so he has plenty of time to develop in college before looking to make the jump to professional hockey, although it may not take long if he can continue to score like he is now.

It's safe to say that he has the potential to be a top-six forward for the Blue Jackets down the road, as his hockey IQ and vision allow him to be dangerous from anywhere on the ice at any time.

He's not a liability on defense either, as he carries over his smart play to the other end of the rink as well. He's been playing on the second line for the Buckeyes, and has had to defend against skilled playmakers like himself.

Despite the criticism of some of the Blue Jackets' past draft picks, especially those in the first round, they have consistently found underrated talent late in the draft with plenty of intriguing upside.

Yes, players like Cayden Lindstrom and Corson Ceulemans haven't lived up to their lofty expectations, but I think that some of the late-round gems they have found in players like Jardine make up for it.

Regardless, Evan Jardine will be a player to keep an eye on, and may very well put himself into the conversation regarding the Blue Jackets' future if he can carry this hot start over to the rest of the season.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow