Ryan Johansen becoming a star with Blue Jackets

Injuries to the Blue Jackets offense have given Ryan Johansen an opportunity to shine in his third NHL season and the former fourth-overall pick isn't letting it go to waste.

Johansen, who totaled 33 points in his first 107 NHL games, leads Columbus with 10 goals and 19 points after a strong November that saw his average ice-time increase by 1:22 from October. The 21-year-old has four goals and six points in his last four games and is starting to look like the player who dominated the WHL with the Portland Winterhawks.

Johansen has become the Blue Jackets offensive leader in the absence of players like Marian Gaborik and Brandon Dubinsky. He uses his 6-foot-3 frame to create space in scoring areas and box out defenders and has acquired the patience to effectively employ his quick and accurate wrist shot.

"I have had the opportunity to play with some great players on this team and they have helped me out a lot," Johansen told the Vancouver Sun in November. "I feel like I have made a pretty big jump and I still feel like there is a lot of room for improvement as well."

Columbus coach Todd Richards acknowledges Johansen's game has taken a step forward this season, noting his tendency to get involved physically in the corners and along the boards to win pucks and create chances. Johansen is around 30 pounds heavier now than when he entered the league.

"I think it has helped me a lot with all aspects of the game -- speed, strength, faceoffs, in the corners, really every part of my game," he said.