Mateychuk took a leap in his second season between the NHL and AHL, establishing himself as something as close to a regular on Columbus’ blue line as he could get. The 21-year-old defenseman set career highs across the board in 2025-26, recording 13 goals and 18 assists for a total of 31 points across 75 games while averaging 19:11 minutes per night. His 13 goals were especially notable after he managed just four in 45 games as a rookie. Mateychuk also finished the season with a plus-12 rating and signed through 2026-27, remaining an important part of the Blue Jackets’ younger defensive core.

Mateychuk wrapped up his first NHL campaign, immediately stepping into the top four and showing no problems adapting to the NHL. Physicality remains an issue, but his motor and skating offset it in most scenarios. His creativity and natural playmaking instincts continue to shine, though his shots per game are quite low. As long as Werenski is healthy and in the lineup, there is little chance Mateychuk earns a role on the first power play, unless Columbus runs two defensemen, which is rare. He will not be the headliner for Columbus anytime soon, but he has positioned himself as their top defensive prospect. Managers who could use a 30-point defenseman should keep him in mind. If Werenski were to get injured, Mateychuk would likely be promoted to the top power play unit. He does not provide much in hits, but his block totals are respectable. –

In his first 20 games after a late December call-up, Mateychuk has recorded two goals and two assists while averaging 18 minutes a night. His high motor skills, positional awareness, and mobility in all three zones have helped him adapt to the pace of play and transition nicely into the NHL. To fully round out his two-way game, he needs to adjust to the physicality at the next level and find more efficient ways to win board battles and gain net front position. With the departure of David Jiricek, he has the chance to establish himself as the top defenseman in the Jackets prospect pool and secure a lasting role on the team while continuing his development.

Mateychuk was sent back to the Moose Jaw Warriors of the WHL for the season, where he was named team Captain.

The Columbus Blue Jackets selected Mateychuk as the 12th pick in the 2022 NHL Draft.