Blue Jackets Pick Penn State Commit Jackson Smith 14th

The Columbus Blue Jackets selected defenseman Jackson Smith 14th overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, recognizing his strong WHL season and standout international play for Canada. Smith, who recently committed to Penn State, became the first Nittany Lion ever picked in the NHL draft's first round. Scouts praise his size, skating, and offensive upside, though note his defensive decision-making is still developing. The Blue Jackets also chose Russian goaltender Pyotr Andreyanov 20th overall for his impressive stats in Russia’s Junior Hockey League. Pittsburgh selected Bill Zonnon 22nd overall following his productive QMJHL season, though he is projected as a bottom-six NHL forward. These selections reflect a 2025 draft trend toward versatile, hard-working prospects with high developmental potential.