While not the best rookie in the NHL this season, the Columbus Blue Jackets Kent Johnson is showing what made him an elite prospect and shows the sky is the limit. Among NHL rookies, Johnson is fifth in points with 27, fourth in goals with 12, and ninth in assists with 15. Kent Johnson is one of the bright spots for the Blue Jackets team, which has not had many.
Starting the season with minimal ice time, Kent Johnson has slowly but surely gained more and more ice time now, up to 14:39 minutes. As Johnson has earned the time, he has been given more and more responsibility, to which he has responded.
The Seattle Kraken’s Matty Beniers is the current favorite to win the Calder trophy. But Johnson’s numbers are not too far behind. In recent games, Johnson has had a lot of confidence with the puck. There is a reason behind Johnson’s increased confidence, more ice time. The two go hand-in-hand.
Kent Johnson has not gone more than five games without a point. When the young forward has a game that he struggles in, he finds a way to push through that, which is why it is evident that he is both teachable and his development is on target.
As a rookie on a bad Columbus Blue Jackets team, Johnson is fifth on the team in points and goals. Also, Johnson is fourth in assists. Kent Johnson has played a total of 61 NHL games. From where he started to where he is, is encouraging and has shown that as a rookie, he can elevate his game even when struggles hit.
With fellow rookie teammate Kirill Marchenko, the Blue Jackets look like they have a formidable duo. More nights than not, Marchenko and Johnson have been on the ice together. One aspect the Blue Jackets would like from Johnson is that he shoots the puck more. The Blue Jackets roster is chalked full of pass-happy forwards.
As Kent Johnson continues to develop his game, the hope is that he leans more heavily toward shooting the puck. Given his development to date, it is safe to say he will.
