Columbus Blue Jackets’ rookie center Adam Fantilli will be sidelined for eight weeks due to a laceration on his left calf from a skate blade during Sunday’s game against Seattle, as announced by the team on Wednesday. This setback adds to the challenges faced by the struggling Blue Jackets, currently in last place.
The team had earlier disclosed that forward Patrik Laine is entering the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program, keeping him away from the team for an indefinite period while receiving care from the joint program.
Patrik Laine, a key scoring threat for the Blue Jackets, has been out of play since mid-December due to a left clavicle break, limiting him to 18 games with six goals and three assists. Meanwhile, Adam Fantilli has emerged as one of the top rookies in the NHL, ranking third in scoring for the team with 12 goals and 15 assists.
Fantilli is also notable league-wide, holding the third position in goals and fourth in points among rookies, with 115 shots on goal. The 19-year-old, originally from Nobleton, Ontario, was the third overall pick for Columbus in the 2023 NHL Draft. The Blue Jackets are scheduled to resume play after the All-Star break on Feb. 10 against Tampa Bay.
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