The Columbus Blue Jackets trudged through the first two months of the season. As of late, the team's play has improved. Young defenseman Denton Mateychuk has been a bright light for the Blue Jackets, and his development and play have greatly improved. Now on the top pairing with Zach Werenski, it feels like Mateychuk is just scratching the surface of his ability.
Denton Mateychuk has shown such significant improvement, the Blue Jackets have started giving him more responsibilities at both ends of the ice as well as on the power play. He has been lauded for his smart, impactful play, placing him as a key fixture in the Blue Jackets blue line for the foreseeable future.
Last season, playing primarily on the third line with a look at the second line, Mateychuk had a nice rookie season. This season, he has taken a massive step and is paired on the Blue Jackets top line. Scoring goals at a nice rate while also being more willing to join the rush and play a more physical game are key reasons for the promotion.
Mateychuk has taken advantage of teammates' injuries, which allowed him power play time, and it does not look like he will be moving off that unit as players return from injury. Where he has shone is in his defensive play. Playing smart, hard defending, and he has a better understanding of defensive gaps, which has also played a role in his elevated play.
Mateychuk has made plays all over the ice, making him a high-potential player.