Welcome to this edition of the 2025 WHL Prospect Pools. Throughout the 2025 off-season, we will be taking a look at current or recently graduated WHLers who have either been drafted or signed by NHL clubs. Today's organization is the Columbus Blue Jackets, which has four WHLers in its prospect pool.
Columbus has done a good job of acquiring WHL talent over the last few drafts. They selected Cayden Lindstrom, Charlie Elick and Evan Gardner in 2024, before adding Jackson Smith this year. Overall, the Blue Jackets have done a great job of incorporating WHL talent into their organization, as they already have players like Cole Sillinger, Damon Severson and Denton Mateychuk in their lineup.
Starting with Gardner, he has already signed his Entry-Level Contract with Columbus. Drafted 60th overall in 2024, the Saskatoon Blades goaltender has posted a 44-18-5 over his WHL career. Listed at 6'1", 176 lbs, Gardner had the chance to make his AHL debut last season.
Next up is Tri-City Americans defenceman Elick, who was drafted 36th overall in 2024. The 19-year-old spent last season split between Tri-City and the Brandon Wheat Kings, where he recorded 15 points in 66 games. Listed at 6'4", 205 lbs, Elick is expected to play a massive role for the Americans this season.
The third player from the 2024 draft is Medicine Hat Tigers center Lindstrom, who was drafted fourth overall. The 19-year-old missed the entire regular season with injury and has only played seven total games over the past year. Listed at 6'4", 212 lbs, Lindstrom is headed to the NCAA next season where he will play for Michigan State University.
Lastly, Tri-City Americans defenceman Smith was drafted 14th overall in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. The 18-year-old recorded 54 points in 68 games, while also winning Gold for Canada at the U18s. Listed at 6'4", 198 lbs, Smith will not be back in the WHL next season as he has committed to Penn State University.
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