Could it be Denton Mateychuk time?
It certainly appears close – if not inevitable. The Blue Jackets recalled their prized prospect from the Cleveland Monsters (AHL) on Sunday, a day after both Zach Werenski and Jake Christiansen sustained injuries in the team's 5-4 overtime loss in Philadelphia.
Both Werenski and Christiansen left the game briefly but did return. Head coach Dean Evason said the team is cautiously optimistic about Werenski's outlook, saying post game that they're hoping his injury doesn't "seize up."
Christiansen blocked a shot off his foot and spoke to the media after the game. The Blue Jackets were off Sunday and did not provide a status update on either player.
But at least in the short term, the much-anticipated recall of Mateychuk has generated excitement in the Blue Jackets' sphere. The 20-year-old was Columbus' first round pick (No. 12) overall in 2022, and since turning pro this spring, has done nothing but dominate at the AHL level. At the time of his recall, Mateychuk leads all AHL defensemen in goals (9) and points (25). He also has four power play goals and 54 shots on goal in 27 games with Cleveland in 2024-25.
Other roster moves from the Blue Jackets on Sunday:
- Justin Danforth was placed on injured reserve retroactive to Dec. 10. He's missed six games with a lower body injury.
- Jet Greaves was added to the roster on emergency recall.
- James Malatesta was loaned back to the Monsters
