On June 27, 2026, the Columbus Blue Jackets made a calculated move by choosing Oscar Hemming with the 14th overall pick, a selection that underscores the team's focus on adding dynamic forward talent. The 17‑year‑old arrives from Boston College, where he posted eight points in just 19 games during the 2025‑26 season, earning him a spot on the Hockey East Rookie of the Week list on February 9, 2026.
A Family Legacy Shapes a Rising Star
Hemming's hockey lineage runs deep. His older brother, Emil Hemming, was drafted by the Dallas Stars in the first round of the 2024 NHL Draft, while their father, Jonas Hemming, boasts a 16‑year professional career across European leagues. Growing up in Vaasa, Finland, Oscar balanced his development between North America and his homeland, gaining valuable experience with both Boston College and the Finnish club Kiekko‑Espoo.
During the 2024‑25 season, Hemming contributed to Kiekko‑Espoo's U20 and U18 squads, helping the team secure a silver medal in the SM‑Sarja championships. Internationally, he represented Finland at the 2025 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, where he tallied six points in five games, showcasing his ability to perform on bigger stages.
The Blue Jackets' decision reflects a blend of scouting insight and strategic foresight. By integrating a player who has already proven himself in both collegiate and European competition, Columbus aims to bolster its forward depth while capitalizing on a family tradition of excellence. The organization, led by General Manager Don Waddell, sees Hemming as a promising piece of a long‑term vision that blends youthful energy with seasoned pedigree.