🏒 James Malatesta LW

James Malatesta's 2024-25 season with the Columbus Blue Jackets has been primarily focused on development, with limited NHL exposure consisting of 2 games played during this campaign. The 21-year-old left wing has averaged 10:34 of ice time per game across his appearances, typically slotting into a fourth-line role with 11.5 shifts per game. The Montreal native's season has been predominantly spent with the Cleveland Monsters in the AHL, where he's recorded 8 goals and 6 assists for 14 points in 41 games this season. His physical style of play, despite his 5'9" frame, has been evident in the AHL with 49 penalty minutes recorded.

Malatesta's development path follows his impressive junior career, where he captured both the Memorial Cup MVP and QMJHL Playoff MVP honors in 2023. His transition to professional hockey has shown steady progression through the Blue Jackets' development system, with his brief NHL appearances this season serving as opportunities to evaluate his readiness for a larger role. In his limited NHL action this season, Malatesta has maintained the energetic style that earned him his entry-level contract. The Blue Jackets' investment in Malatesta's development is evidenced by his continued opportunities with Cleveland, where he's been able to work on his offensive game while maintaining the high-energy, physical presence that made him successful in junior hockey. His AHL playoff experience last season (6 games, 1 goal) has provided valuable professional postseason experience.