Blue Jackets draft Denton Mateychuk 12th overall
The Columbus Blue Jackets selected Denton Mateychuk with the 12th overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft.
Denton Mateychuk
Position: Defenseman
Height: 5-foot-10
Weight: 194 lbs
Age: 17
Club: Moose Jaw (WHL)
Nationality: Canadian
| GP | G | A | P |
|---|---|---|---|
| 65 | 13 | 51 | 64 |
(Stats source: EliteProspects.com)
Mateychuk was a workhorse for Moose Jaw this season, logging big-time minutes in all situations while ranking third on the squad with 64 points. He handled his heavy workload like a champ and finished the regular season with a team-best plus-20.
The left-sided rearguard went on to produce in the playoffs, with one goal and nine assists in 10 games. Mateychuk isn't a stranger to international competition, either, winning gold at the 2021 IIHF World U18 Championship after making the team as an under-ager.
Despite his smaller stature, the Canadian youngster can effectively direct play and escape tough spots due to his strong skating capability. He also isn't lacking any of the soft skills needed to excel at a big-league level: Mateychuk is known for his ability to lead by example, and he was named one of the captains for the CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game in March.
NHL Central Scouting slotted Mateychuk 14th among North American skaters in its final rankings, while The Athletic's Corey Pronman listed him as the second-best skater in the draft class.
What they're saying
"Mateychuk is an undersized but dynamic defenseman. His skating pops, showing very quick feet that can easily transition pucks up ice with speed or evade pressure easily," Pronman wrote in late May. "Mateychuk attacks with the puck using his skill, skating, and vision, making him a threat off the rush and blue line to create chances."
The Athletic's Scott Wheeler called Mateychuk "the definition - or close - of the modern defenseman."
"Mateychuk pushes when he can, and everything he does is done with poise and command," Wheeler wrote. "He plays a reliable and calculating game built around his mobility and sound decision-making."
Sportsnet's Sam Cosentino lauded Mateychuk's take-charge approach and leadership on the ice and added that he doesn't foresee the blue-liner's size being an issue.
Tap here to watch some of Mateychuk's highlights.