Boone Jenner Returns to Blue Jackets After 14-Game Absence
Columbus Blue Jackets captain Boone Jenner is making his return to the lineup after a prolonged absence due to injury. He is set to play against the Ottawa Senators on Thursday night, a significant boost for the struggling Blue Jackets.
Boone Jenner’s Injury and Return
Jenner has been sidelined for the last 14 games due to an injury sustained during a match against the Seattle Kraken on November 11. Following his injury, he was placed on injured reserve but has been skating again for the past couple of weeks, signaling his readiness to return.
Lineup Changes Ahead of the Game
During the morning skate, Jenner practiced on the second line alongside young players Kent Johnson and Adam Fantilli. This combination aims to enhance the team’s dynamics, especially as they face the Senators. Additionally, Sean Monahan is expected to play between Dmitri Voronkov and Kirill Marchenko.
Team Performance During Jenner’s Absence
- The Blue Jackets posted a record of 5 wins, 4 losses, and 5 overtime losses.
- However, they have lost three consecutive games, including setbacks against the Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes.
Career Challenges and Statistics
Throughout his career, Boone Jenner has faced various injury concerns. Notably, he has not participated in a full 82-game season since the 2016-17 campaign. Last season was cut short for him after a shoulder injury kept him off the ice until February.
In the limited games he played last season, Jenner recorded 26 appearances, scoring seven goals and notching 12 assists for a total of 19 points. Before his recent injury, he had accumulated three goals and seven assists, contributing to a minus-7 rating while averaging just over 16 minutes of ice time per game.
Current Standing of the Blue Jackets
As the Blue Jackets prepare for Jenner’s return, their current record stands at 13 wins, 11 losses, and 6 overtime losses. They occupy the last position in the Metropolitan Division, trailing three points behind the final Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference.
