Columbus Blue Jackets top prospects, summer of 2024: players #10-1

1. (NR) C Cayden Lindstrom 6'3", 215 pounds. 1st round (#4 overall), 2024 NHL Draft. Projection: top line center. Stats: 27g-19a-46pts, 32gp for Medicine Hat (WHL). Will return to the Tigers next season. How we ranked him: Curtis (1) Matt (1) Mike (1)

Why we ranked him here: In a system loaded with talent, Cayden Lindstrom has the most upside of anyone not currently in the NHL. He was our unanimous #1 prospect. At 6'3" and already with an NHL frame, he averaged nearly a goal per game in the WHL as a draft eligible player this season; and he can do it all.

He's a high end skater with a high end shot. He can pass, he plays physical, will drop the gloves, and he already plays like a strong two-way center. If he were the centerpiece of our rebuild, I think we would be in great shape. It's almost absurd that we have both Lindstrom and Adam Fantilli. In very short time, the top two centers for the Blue Jackets will be the envy of nearly every other team in the league.

The only concern with him is the back injury he suffered this season. If there are any long-term effects, there is a non-zero chance that this was a wasted pick. But, if Lindstrom pans out, the Blue Jackets are going to be a matchup nightmare down the middle. This is a guy who has drawn comparisons to Eric Lindros at the same age, and I don't think that's hyperbolic. If he had been healthy all year, I think he would have challenged for the first overall selection at the draft.

Another dismal season on the ice has helped the Blue Jackets load up with several more high end prospects - including one of the best players they've had a chance to draft. I think every player inside the top-10 of this list has a bright NHL future in some capacity.

That's not something I can ever recall saying about this organization. We're all tired of the word patience, but in this case, our patience might eventually pay off. If even half of these guys develop into their top end, the Blue Jackets are going to be an elite team in a few years.

Jarmo Kekalainen did a tremendous job finding talent throughout the draft, something the scouting staff continued to do at this year's edition. Now, it's up to Don Waddell to lead the charge and round out the development side of things. Fingers crossed that it works in our favor this time.