Between now and the start of camp we will finish our Top 25 Under 25 countdown. Thanks to the 74 readers who submitted ballots in this year’s ranking of Columbus Blue Jackets players and prospects under the age of 25.
#14 Luca Del Bel Belluz
Voting
14th out of 42 eligible players
Writer Rank: 15th
Reader Rank: 13th
Highest Placement: 8th (2 vote)
Most Common Placement: 12th (12 votes)
2023 Rank: 12th (-2)
Biography
Birthdate: November 10, 2003
Birthplace: Woodbridge, Ontario
Height: 6’0″
Weight: 179 lbs
Position: C
Shoots: Left
Acquired: Drafted in the 2nd round (44th overall) in 2022
2023-24 Season
LDBB’s adjustment to professional hockey has been rocky, though his rookie season in the AHL was a respectable one. He played up and down the lineup and endured several scratches, but managed 31 points in 58 games.
2024-25 Outlook
Hopefully, Luca can carve out a more prominent role in Cleveland this season. His development has slowed down, but the 20-year-old still has NHL upside.
I’m sure the Blue Jackets and Luca would like to see his offensive numbers improve this season. He scored a combined 70 goals in his last two seasons in the OHL but only 9 in his first professional season. He’s also known as being a two-way center, something he needs to continue to develop in Cleveland.