The Columbus Blue Jackets may have a hidden gem ready to shine next season. Prospect Luca Del Bel Belluz, a 22-year-old forward, is shaping up to be a prime breakout candidate after another impressive campaign in the American Hockey League (AHL).

Drafted in the second round of the 2022 NHL Entry Draft, Del Bel Belluz has been quietly climbing the ranks with the Cleveland Monsters. This season, he notched 22 goals and set new AHL career highs with 36 assists and 58 points in just 55 games. That's a solid step up from his 2024-25 season, where he posted 27 goals, 26 assists, and 53 points in 61 contests. The consistent upward trend is hard to ignore.

While Del Bel Belluz hasn't yet locked down a full-time spot in the NHL, his trajectory suggests that could change soon. The young center is showing clear signs of development, and it wouldn't surprise anyone if he finally breaks through with the Blue Jackets next season. For a Columbus team aiming to return to playoff contention, having a skilled prospect like Del Bel Belluz take that next step would be a huge boost.

Whether he's scoring in the AHL or making an impact in the NHL, players like Del Bel Belluz remind us why development and patience matter in hockey. Keep an eye on him next season—his future looks bright.