Blue Jackets' Patrik Laine returning from oblique injury vs. Predators

Columbus Blue Jackets forward Patrik Laine, right, controls the puck in front of Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Connor Murphy during the second period of an NHL hockey game in Columbus, Ohio, Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2021. (Paul Vernon/AP)

Columbus Blue Jackets star Patrik Laine is on track to return to the lineup Thursday against the Nashville Predators, head coach Brad Larsen announced.

Laine has only appeared in nine games this season and last played Nov. 3. He was initially out of the lineup while recovering from an oblique injury but that rehab was interrupted by the death of his father. Laine travelled home to Finland to be with family and rejoined his teammates shortly before the NHL paused team activities due to rising COVID-19 cases.

“It’s just up to the coach when he wants to put me back in,” Laine said Monday. “I’ve been feeling really good the last week, week-and-a-half, but I feel ready to go.”

In addition to Laine's return, Larsen said the Blue Jackets may have some other regulars back in the lineup depending on how the day's COVID-19 tests go. Among those players are captain Boone Jenner -- who was in protocol -- and defenceman Adam Boqvist, who missed most of the month of December with an upper-body injury. Elvis Merzlikins will start in net for the Blue Jackets while forward Emil Bemstrom is on track to make his season debut.

When submitting content, please abide by our  submission guidelines, and avoid posting profanity, personal attacks or harassment. Should you violate our submissions guidelines, we reserve the right to remove your comments and block your account. Sportsnet reserves the right to close a story’s comment section at any time.
We use cookies to improve your experience. Learn More or change your cookie preferences. By continuing to use this site, you agree to the use of cookies.
close