Blue Jackets Signing Big, Talented Forward to Extension

Forward Dmitri Voronkov Re-Signs In Ohio

Voronkov was originally drafted by the Blue Jackets in the fourth round of the 2019 NHL Entry Draft. In all, he played parts of five seasons in the KHL with Kazan Ak-Bars. He started in North America in his 2023-24 rookie season.

The Russian forward is big, listed at 6’5″ and 227 lbs. Dmitri Voronkov also has some scoring touch. In 2024-25, just his second full season with the Columbus Blue Jackets in the NHL, his stats were solid. He had 23 goals and 24 assists for 47 points through 73 games played. Also, he had a CF% Rel. of 3.7 at even strength, all in 16:47 of ice time. That had followed up an 18-goal NHL rookie campaign for Voronkov.

What Does He Mean to Columbus

Needless to say, as Dmitri Voronkov signs his extension, it seems he is a fit in Columbus. Columbus has a strong crop of skilled forwards. Furthermore, Voronkov is a nice continuation of those type of players, as well as mixing in size. He has nice chemistry with Kirill Marchenko. When they link up with a solid centre, whether that is Sean Monahan or another up-and-comer, Adam Fantilli, it seems to be a blueprint for success.

Columbus has done a great job of developing young, talented forwards. It seems that it is a recipe for success. General manager Don Waddell has a good young crop of players. If they develop chemistry, they could easily make a run for the playoffs in 2025-26.