“It’s coming in waves” – Blue Jackets forward Patrik Laine injured again with sprained ankle, out 3-4 weeks
Follow Us
Patrik Laine
Columbus Bue Jackets forward Patrik Laine is once again out of the 2022 NHL season due to a sprained ankle. He injured himself sometime during 22:29 in the game against New York Islanders. Islanders forward Zach Parise shot in OT as the team won 4-3 against the Blue Jackets.
After medical procedures, it was stated that the 24-year forward will not be playing for 3-4 weeks. This puts the team in a turbulent state, as they are already missing their star defense pair Zach Werenski, and Nick Blankenburg. Zach is out due to a dislocated shoulder and a torn labrum. He is expected to be out of the season as of now.
Nick, on the other hand, suffered a fractured ankle and high ankle sprain and is expected to be out for 6-8 weeks. This is his second injury in the season, the first being a sprained right elbow against the New Jersey Devils on October 12. He already missed 6 of his games with the recent score being 4 points in 8 games with 2 goals and 2 assists.
Blue Jackets coach Brad Larsen stated, “It’s hockey, and it seems like it’s coming in waves with us right now with some key guys”. “But what do you do? You’ve just got to go play.” Forward Sean Kuraly and defenceman Erik Gudbranson may join the future games as many of the Flyers players are down in IL.
Captain Boone Jenner tightens team play in absence of Patrik Laine
Chosen by the Winnipeg Jets during the 2016 NHL draft, Patrik Laine is currently in a 4-year $34.8 million contract with the team. He has participated in 415 games acquiring 331 points with 178 goals and 153 assists, according to NHL.com.
Blue Jackets captain Boone Jenner stated, “It’s a tough situation, adversity is going to happen”. “Obviously, very unfortunate for him just coming back from an injury, and it happens again. You can’t plan for that.”
“It’s just unfortunate, but it’s time for us to get even tighter as a group. It’s an opportunity for some guys to step up, and everyone needs to play better in his absence.”
Forward Jakub Voracek is also out with an upper-body injury. His return rate is not confirmed yet. Larsen commented that he’s currently “not even in the discussion right now”. Sean can join the game against the Philadelphia Flyers while defenceman Erik has started practicing since Monday, and could be on the ice anytime soon.
Do follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Stay Updated!
Kaushani Chatterjee
(2169 Articles Published)