The Blue Jackets were unable to make sweeping changes to their defense this summer. They will run things back with seven guys who were here last season, with the hope that they can improve as a unit. One player who could make a huge difference if he breaks out in a bigger role is sophomore Denton Mateychuk.
It did not take Denton long to prove too good for the American Hockey League. After a long run to a WHL championship and Memorial Cup berth in 2023-24, he earned an entire trophy cabinet of honors to cap a remarkable junior hockey career.