Oliver Bjorkstrand has certainly been through his fair share of ups and downs as a Blue Jacket.
It's always been apparent that he has the skill to play in a top-six role in the NHL. However, he seems to be coming into his own this season after a couple of bumpy years.
Still just 23 years old, the Danish winger brings a four-game point streak and two-game goal scoring streak into the Blue Jackets' matchup with the Oilers on Saturday afternoon. In the last few games, we've seen his play skyrocket, as his speed and confidence have increased significantly.
Recently, Bjorkstrand has been paired on a line with Matt Duchene and Ryan Dzingel, which has allowed him more space to work and unleash his wicked shot or utilize his excellent speed to fly by defensemen. As the playoff drive intensifies, the Blue Jackets want to see this skillful line to do a lot of damage. All three forwards are dynamic and draw attention from opposing defensemen, leaving the ice open for their line mates.
We saw Bjorkstrand's excellent shot on display Tuesday night against the Penguins, as he uncorked a quick wrister and beat Matt Murray's glove.
Ryan Dzingel with his first point as a Blue Jacket.
— 1st Ohio Battery (@1stOhioBattery) February 27, 2019
Bjorkstrand's shot wasn't going to be stopped by anyone. #CBJ pic.twitter.com/WkPYPJcPnr
This is an indication of Bjorkstrand's skill and potential. If he can find a way to be more consistent, he's already got all the tools to be a legitimate star.
Then, last night against the Flyers in a huge game against a Metro rival, he came up with a big goal in the first period off of a nice feed from Boone Jenner.
.@OBjorkstrand cleaning up pic.twitter.com/H5Jpnl15mM
— Columbus Blue Jackets (@BlueJacketsNHL) March 1, 2019
In the right spot at the right time, Bjorkstrand wasted no time with a one-time finish. He also added a second goal in the first period that was waved off due to the puck being kicked.
If he continues playing at the excellent pace he has been recently, look for him to play a huge role in the Blue Jackets' playoff push, and in years to come. His recent resurgence is nothing but good news for Columbus, and they'll need him to keep contributing if they want a shot at the playoffs and the Stanley Cup.
