The Columbus Blue Jackets have struggled this season to find consistency due in part to roster construction and part injuries. The Blue Jackets have had a revolving door of players shuttling between AHL affiliate Cleveland (Monsters) and Columbus, sometimes on a game-to-game basis. Yet, in a no-good, very bad season, the Blue Jackets appear to have turned up a real gem, undrafted defensemen Marcus Bjork.
Bjork had played in the Swedish league and agreed to a one-year, two-way deal with Columbus. Appearing in just 11 games for the Cleveland Monsters due to a bunch of injuries, Bjork was pressed into service in the NHL. Bjork may not come out of the Columbus lineup again.
The Blue Jackets’ defense has been largely void of consistent play even when the team was at full strength. The organizational switch to a man-to-man style of defense was having a rough time gaining traction. Bjork, forced into the lineup, has been the most steady defensive player by a mile. In his first season in North American hockey, Bjork has adapted quickly.
Bjork seems to have gotten a second wind. The heavy minutes he has been asked to play took a toll on him. His game did not suffer, but it did dip if that makes sense. Bjork’s effort never dropped, and his competitive level is getting him noticed. He is very smart with and without the puck. A quick, hard-hitting defenseman who plays a very tight gap and does not shy away from any situation, Bjork has been a shot in the arm to a defensive unit that needs one badly.
When the Blue Jackets enter training camp heading into next season with injured players back and promising prospect, David Jiricek on board Marcus Bjork would strengthen the defense, having a season under his belt and players returning from injury. Bjork has shown himself to be a very good two-way player who looks and feels like he can give even more. It is becoming increasingly apparent each passing game that the Blue Jackets need to resign Bjork to an extension.
The Blue Jackets’ future defense (as soon as next season) looks promising.
