Elton Hermansson: A Key Target for the Blue Jackets in the NHL Draft

The Columbus Blue Jackets are gearing up for another pivotal moment in their franchise history as they approach the upcoming NHL Draft. For the second consecutive year, the team finds itself with the 14th overall pick, a position that could yield significant potential. While they didn’t win the lottery, the anticipation of who they might select is palpable, setting the stage for an exciting draft speculation season.

Among the names being discussed is Elton Hermansson, a promising right-shot forward from Örnsköldsvik, Sweden. Standing at 6’1″ and weighing 181 pounds, Hermansson has shown considerable skill during his time with MoDo Hockey in the Hockey Allsvenskan. In the 2025-26 season, he notched 11 goals and 10 assists for a total of 21 points over 38 games, while also showcasing his talents internationally with 33 points in 18 games.

Ranked 12th by The Hockey News and 5th overall for international skaters by NHL Central Scouting, Hermansson’s stock is on the rise. Scouts have noted his adaptability, particularly since his promotion to the Allsvenskan in December. As highlighted by SportsNet, Hermansson has made an impact with five of his 15 points coming in just the last four games. His recent performance suggests that he could ascend even higher on draft boards as teams finalize their assessments.

The strategic decisions surrounding the Blue Jackets’ 14th pick remain uncertain. General Manager Don Waddell faces the dilemma of whether to trade the pick or hold onto it, as the mid-first round position may not attract much interest from other teams. However, the landscape of this draft appears more promising than last year’s, with several players potentially slipping down the list, which could create opportunities for the Blue Jackets.

Fans will recall the success of last year’s draft, where Columbus struck gold with defenseman Jackson Smith, who concluded his freshman season at Penn State with impressive accolades. The question remains: can the Blue Jackets strike gold again this year with Hermansson or another talented player?

The NHL Draft is set for June 26 and 27 in Buffalo, where the Blue Jackets are poised to make their mark with the 14th overall pick. Stay tuned for the latest updates on the Blue Jackets as they navigate this crucial moment in their development.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.