With the 5th pick in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft, the Columbus Blue Jackets chose Kent Johnson, a center from the University of Michigan.
Johnson was projected to be a top 10 pick, but few had him in the top 5. Anaheim selecting Mason McTavish likely threw a wrench in the Jackets’ plans. Simon Edvinsson was another popular choice for the Jackets at #5, but the acquisition of two young centers earlier in they day likely took him off the board.
Johnson scored 27 points in 26 games in his freshman season at Michigan. Read our prospect profile here.