The young center looks to make his mark

When Luca Del Bel Belluz told reporters at development camp last year that he would be turning pro, Blue Jacket fans and Monster fans were both excited. He had served his required time in Junior, so we knew he was on his way, but hearing him say it meant it was real.

Del Bel Belluz was drafted in 2022, #44 overall by Columbus, a pick in which some considered a steal at the time. Later in 2022, he would sign his entry level contract with the CBJ. The Woodbridge, Ontario product was drafted by the Mississauga Steelheads of the OHL, and then in his final year he was traded to the Sarnia Sting, also of the OHL.

His first year with the Steelheads he played in 58 games and was only able to muster six points. His second season would be derailed by COVID as the OHL canceled the season. His third year saw him have his breakout year. In 68 games he would score 30 goals and have 76 points. And then last season he played in 34 games for Mississauga before being traded. He would go on to score 20 goals and 41 points for the Steelheads. After being traded to Sarnia, he played in 32 games, scoring 20 goals and 46 points. He would also play in 16 playoff games for Sarnia, scoring 15 points. Another CBJ draft pick, Ole Julian Bjorgvik-Holm was also a teammate of his with Mississauga.

LDBB is a shifty center with smooth hands. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing in at 184 pounds, he’s able to make sharp turns while handling the puck, all while continuing to attack the defense and looking for his teammates to make some plays. With his size, he would most likely be used on the wing in the NHL but given his experience taking and winning face-offs and being a playmaker, this could make him a valuable asset down the road playing wing for the CBJ. He is described as a sharpshooter by scouts and could score when he wanted to in Junior. Scouts have knocked him for his skating ability and physical play. His size doesn’t translate to having a very physical game, but with his scoring touch and play making abilities, he can be used in other ways.

Del Bel Belluz will come to Columbus camp but will most likely start his career in Cleveland playing for the Monsters. Monster fans are in for a treat with LDBB. This young center could very well lead the team in points next season. Cleveland is going to be loaded with young talent with players like Del Bel Belluz, Liam Foudy, Stanislav Svozil, Hunter McKown, David Jiricek, Trey Fix-Wolansky, James Malatesta and many more.

Buckle up Cleveland fans, you could be in for a treat this season, and for years to come. This Columbus franchise has a problem they’ve never had before and that’s too much talent.

Related: The CBJ Prospect pool is deep