Fansided · Nov 4, 2025
Prospect watch, Jackson Smith has made a smooth transition to the NCAA
Blue Jackets prospect and Penn State defenseman Jackson Smith (7) celebrates a win over Clarkson with his teammates. | Barry Reeger-Imagn ImagesAfter two standout seasons in the Western Hockey League, Blue Jackets first rounder Jackson Smith has made a smooth transition to the NCAA. He's been a terrific add for the Penn State Nitany Lions so far.
In two full seasons (plus six games as an underage player) with the Tri City Americans, Jackson scored 19 goals and 85 points in 136 regular season games played. These are very impressive numbers for any defenseman; but especially for a player who didn't even turn 18 until the very end of his last year there.