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CBJ Draft Day Targets: Ryan Lin
TL;DR
The Columbus Blue Jackets will pick 14th in the upcoming NHL Draft for the second consecutive year. Draft speculation includes potential targets, notably Ryan Lin.
Key points
- Columbus Blue Jackets will pick 14th in the NHL Draft.
- This is the second consecutive year they have the 14th pick.
- Ryan Lin is a potential draft target for the team.
- Draft speculation is a key focus as the event approaches.
Ryan LinColumbus Blue Jackets
The Columbus Blue Jackets found out on Tuesday where they would land in the upcoming NHL Draft, and to no one's surprise, they didn't win the lottery. For the second straight year, they will pick #14, and for the second straight year, they might actually get lucky.
Welcome to draft speculation season, where we will talk about all the potential draft targets for the CBJ. Could someone fall to them at #14, or will they reach for a player who is projected to be lower? Who know, but it's fun to speculate.
So, here we go.
Target: Ryan Lin
Height/Weight: 5'11'' - 178 lbs.
Current Team: Vancouver Giants (WHL) - Committed to play at the Univ. of Denver for 26-27.
Position: Right Shot Defense
2025-26 Stats: 14g-43a-57 pts in 53 games.
International Stats: 25-26 Hlinka Gretzky Cup -5 points in 5 games. 25-26 World Junior Championships - 6 points in 5 games.
THN Ranking: 15th - Kennedy, 25th - Ferrari
NHL Central Scouting: 16th overall in North America - 5th overall Defenseman in N.A.
What Scouts Have Seen
- Hockey IQ & Vision: Regarded as one of the smartest players in his draft class, displaying high-end composure and anticipation.
- Offensive Game: An effective power-play quarterback with a quick release and accurate shot, often acting as a "sidecar" to offensive rushes.
- Defensive Ability: Despite his stature, he is described as a "workhorse" who uses his stick effectively to disrupt plays and 1-on-1 situations.
- Skating & Size: While he has good agility and edge work for a 5'11" frame, his stride length is short, and he requires continued strength development to ensure his physical, high-minute game translates to the NHL.
- Draft Stock: A high-end prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft who has continued to produce at a high rate despite being a younger, smaller defender.
Q&A
Who is Ryan Lin and why is he a target for the Columbus Blue Jackets?
Ryan Lin is a potential draft pick being considered by the Columbus Blue Jackets as they prepare for the NHL Draft.
What position does Ryan Lin play in hockey?
Ryan Lin is a forward, making him a valuable target for teams looking to strengthen their offensive lineup.
What draft position will the Columbus Blue Jackets have in the NHL Draft?
The Columbus Blue Jackets will have the 14th overall pick in the upcoming NHL Draft.
What are the chances of the Blue Jackets getting lucky with their draft pick?
While the Blue Jackets did not win the lottery, there is speculation that they could still find a valuable player at the 14th pick.
