Seth Jones is a rising start in the NHL, particularly on defense.
He's coming off a 46-point regular season that was followed up by nine points (three goals, six assists) in 10 playoff games, and finally, his name has regularly surfaced in the Norris Trophy conversation.
Best way to start Monday morning is with a good ole' debate! #NHLTopPlayers pic.twitter.com/peuTz9OZP1
— NHL Network (@NHLNetwork) September 9, 2019
And now, the NHL Network has Jones in the Top 50 of the league's players, checking in at No. 31 on their latest list. Jones is in good company here, but you could make a strong argument that he should be a bit higher in ranking among his fellow defensemen; Jones, for whatever reason, doesn't get nearly enough credit for the game-breaking ability he brings to the table – including how much of a workhorse he is on the back end.
This is another important season for Jones, who steps further into a leadership role within the Blue Jackets' locker room in what figures to be a transitional season. With several offseason departures and questions about the club's offensive viability, the Blue Jackets' active and skilled defense is going to be counted on to chip in offensively, and Jones is a huge part of that.
