John Buccigross of ESPN believes that Adam Fantilli is also a major contender for the Calder Trophy, awarded to the best rookie of the season, in 2024.
Buccigross reportedly said “I don’t see why he can’t be a 30-30-60 guy and challenge Bedard for the Calder” Buccigross has previously noted that Adam Fantilli is the perfect choice for Columbus Blue Jackets.
Columbus Blue Jackets selected Adam Fantilli as the 3rd overall draft pick of the 2024 NHL Draft after the Anaheim Ducks passed on Adam. The 18-year-old earned a high draft ranking thanks to his excellent collegiate career. Fantilli, starting for the University of Michigan, became the leading goal-scorer and won the Hobey Baker Award. He is the third-ever freshman to win the coveted prize.
Adam Fantilli has also made some major strides in International Ice as well. In 2024, He became the second Canadian to win World Juniors and World Championship gold medals in the same year. He was also a part of the bronze-winning Canadian team at the 2020 Lausanne Winter Youth Olympics.
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As much as the Buccigross’ statement might have lit happiness in Blue Jackets fans’ faces, The Calder is not an easy race. In addition to the huge barricade i.e. Bedard, Fantilli will also face extreme competition from Luke Hughes and Logan Cooley amongst others.
Blue Jackets will be counting on the Fantilli’s success to finally turn the tables for them. In their 23-year-long history, the Columbus Blue Jackets have struggled for most of it. The Blue Jackets seemed to have picked up some good hockey when they qualified for four consecutive playoffs from 2017 to 2020. Nevertheless, the Blue Jackets have never played past the Division Finals.
In addition to a marvelous NHL Draft 2024 where they picked Adam Fantilli, the Columbus Blue Jackets have made quite a few changes during the off-season. They have roped in veterans Damon Severson and Ivan Prorovov, adding experience and a polished blue line to the Jacket squad.
The Blue Jackets are seemingly healthier this season and the fans can bet a lot more hope for the coming season than ever before.
