Reminder: You can still vote on all previous first round match-ups by clicking on the “2017 Favorite Blue Jacket Tournament” link at the top of the page.
PROGRAMMING NOTE: Voting on Games 1 and 2 will end today at noon. The winners will be announced tomorrow as we start Round 2 and reveal the top 4 seeds in each bracket.
We come to the close of Round 1 today with 4 more players from the current Blue Jackets roster. While yesterday featured 4 players known for their physical presence, today features players known for their speed, skill, and playmaking ability. These 4 are the future of Blue Jackets hockey.
Round 1, Game 15: Seth Jones vs. Alexander Wennberg
Jones, D: 116 GP; 14 G; 48 A; 62 P
Notes: In just a season and a half, Jones has earned his place as arguably the best player on the Blue Jackets (non-goalie division). He made his first All-Star Game in 2017. This past season, he led all Columbus skaters in average time on ice.
Wennberg, C: 217 GP; 25 G; 94 A; 119 P
Notes: 2016-17 saw Wennberg take a leap forward as he showed flashes of being a true 1C. He doubled or nearly doubled his combined goals, assists, and point totals from his first two seasons. With Artemi Panarin on his wing now, the sky is the limit.
Round 1, Game 16: Boone Jenner vs. Oliver BJORKSTRAND
Jenner, LW: 267 GP; 73 G; 56 A; 129 P
Notes: BOOOOOOOOOOOONE became an alternate captain at the young age of 22, and that season tallied 30 goals. He had a rough start last season but recovered to have a strong second half.
BJORKSTRAND, RW: 38 GP; 10 G; 11 A; 21 P
Notes: Officially, I must maintain my objectivity as director of this tournament, but unofficially I will ban anyone who doesn’t vote for BJORKSTRAND. I’ve written glowing reports of him here here and here
Debate these choices in the comments, and cast your votes below:
Favorite Blue Jacket: Games 15 and 16
| Jones and Jenner | 97 |
| Jones and BJORKSTRAND | 41 |
| Wennberg and Jenner | 12 |
| Wennberg and BJORKSTRAND | 14 |