The Blue Jackets have signed one of their prospects, Jonathan Davidsson, to an entry-level contract.

SIGNING: #CBJ have signed 2017 sixth round pick Jonathan Davidsson to an entry level contract.https://t.co/4irC45Sbem

— CBJ Public Relations (@BlueJacketsPR) May 4, 2018

Davidsson was a 6th round pick last summer and at the time the pick was an interesting one. Davidsson was an overage prospect who had some skill, had scored at past levels, but relative to his peers he was a below average prospect in the SHL. My thoughts on him were that he needed a big breakout this season before he could be considered much of a prospect.

The breakout happened.

Davidsson put up 31 points in 52 games, second on his team. He also added another eight points in 11 playoff games. His team, Djurgardens IF, finished second in the league during the regular season. Davidsson was a key player for a really good team. He was one of the best players in the SHL at 5 on 5, but couldn’t score on the power play.

#cbj prospect jonathan davidsson had a 2.74 points/60 at 5v5 this season, 5th best in the shl. 9th in total 5v5 points, w/ 29. playing mostly on the 3rd line. solid!

but in over 72 minutes of powerplay time, he had ... 2 points.

in other words: he should fit right in with cbj.

— Jeremy Crowe (@307x) April 30, 2018

The organization is very high on Davidsson. At the end of season press conference this is what Jarmo Kekalainen had to say about Davidsson:

“Jonathan Davidssin in the Swedish League was excellent this year. Got top end NHL speed right now. Played a significant role on Djurgardens, and had very good statistics and is a player that we think has a good chance of making our team next year.”

The theme with Davidsson is his speed. He’s an elite skater which is almost a necessity to play in the NHL today. The Jackets are going to have some openings on the wings next season; as it seems unlikely either Thomas Vanek or Matt Calvert will be returning. Davidsson is a player who looks to be ready for the next step. Check out the video of all 31 of his points from last season. He’s number 71, and also the only right shot his team.




Between Davidsson and Vitali Abramov the Jackets are going to have some good young talent fighting for spots on the wing.

You can follow me on Twitter @PaulBerthelot

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