Rising Power: Columbus Blue Jackets Poised to Break Out

For the first time in franchise history, the Columbus Blue Jackets made the playoffs, though to only get swept by the Detroit Red Wings.

After a season when the Jackets achieved many franchise firsts, fans in Columbus have to be excited at the product that GM Scott Howson has put on the ice: a team that seems to improve from week to week.

One reason to have faith in the future is of course Rick Nash, who can sign an extension with the Blue Jackets as early as July 1.

One of the most underrated players in the NHL, Nash has shown tremendous talent and highlight reel material during his career since being drafted No. 1 in 2002.

The main concern now is for Howson to surround Nash with the talent to help keep the pressure off of him.

R.J. Umberger and Kristian Huselius were signed to help provide some offensive punch and top-line talent to this roster

In his short tenure, Howson has drafted great young players and they have already shown promise in their short time in Columbus.

Most notably are C Derick Brassard, who was only active for two months before season-ending shoulder surgery, but was effective nonetheless, and F Jakub Voracek, who was a solid performer at both ends of the ice, showing great speed.

One guy expected to come in with a great impact is youngster Nikita Filatov, who scored a hat trick against Minnesota in January, but spent most of the year in the minors due to inexperience and lack of size.

Filatov though will be expected to show his talents on full display in the coming years as he has shown top six forward potential in limited time with the Jackets.

With the team lacking tremendous back-end talent, that might slow the progress of a very young, talented group—especially on a power play unit that finished dead last.

Don't forget the Vezina runner-up Steve Mason returns after an incredible rookie season. Hopes are that a solid backup will keep him fresher for the later months and playoffs next season.

Obviously the team could still use some improvements, especially on the power play and backup goaltender.

But the young talent and potential the Jackets hold gives them enough firepower to contend in the Central division, one of the toughest in the NHL.

For the first time the Jackets will have something they aren't used to: expectations. How they live up to them will be the ultimate test for these youngsters.

This season for the Jackets can truly show if this group is ready to rise as a potential powerhouse in the NHL.