Many anticipated the Columbus Blue Jackets taking a goaltender with their second first round pick at the 2025 NHL Draft. They did exactly that, though not the one many expected. They selected Russian netminder Pyotr Andreyanov with pick #20 overall.
Everyone assumed that Joshua Ravensbergen would be the name called with this pick, but I was not so sure. He's quite a bit of a project, and the Jackets might feel somewhat let down by the development - or lack of development - of Daniil Tarasov, a guy who I think is a pretty good comp for Ravensbergen at the same age.
Instead, the Jackets opted for a lesser known entity in Andreyanov. And, I think they are wise in doing so.
While he doesn't have the same size as Ravensbergen, I think he's the more polished prospect at this point. And, he's still 6'2"; so he's not undersized.
Andreyanov is touted as an athletic, aggressive goaltender who works hard to get into position and take away net from the opposition shooter. This season, he played in Russia's MHL (junior level), where he posted a sparkling .942% save percentage with 3 shutouts in 37 games. His record on the season? 23-6-6.
This pick gives the Blue Jackets some serious long-term bullets in the crease. After drafting Evan Gardner last season, they suddenly have an apparent position of strength in goal with Jet Greaves set to play full-time in the NHL this season; and Melvin Strahl developing in the NCAA.
I'm happy they took a goalie here, but I'm even more happy that they didn't cave to popular opinion and pick the guy everyone had penciled in. Clearly, they thought highly enough of Andreyanov to use a high pick on him. They didn't trade back and settle, they held their position and picked the guy they think will be the best goaltender in the draft.
He'll be a longer term prospect, but that's to be expected from a goalie. Hopefully the Jackets can get him to North America sooner than later!