/cdn.vox-cdn.com/photo_images/5157843/136461476.jpg)
The Columbus Blue Jackets have had a disappointing season to say the least, but they've had a bright spark in rookie Ryan Johansen, who's strong play has sparked the team at times and, at the very least, gives them hope for the future. Johansen has been solid enough to keep the team in games and, really, has just performed well all-around. The NHL recently announced the roster for the 2012 Tim Hortons NHL All-Star Game, and Johansen is the lone player representing the Blue Jackets as one of 12 rookies to make it.
Johansen has seven goals wand eight assists and is plus-three on the season. He's got 39 hits and eight blocked shots on top of that, while taking 70 shots on goal. Even when he's not putting up numbers, he's leading his team like a veteran. His first three goals on the season were all game-winners.
It's a strong rookie class this year, based on the high level of play. It will be hard for Johansen to, say, win the Calder Memorial Trophy, but it's been a good season so far for him and should be something that Blue Jackets seriously have to look forward to.
For more on the Columbus Blue Jackets, go to The Cannon. You can also head over to SB Nation's main NHL hub at SBNation.com/NHL.