Blue Jackets' Patrik Laine enters player assistance program

Field Level Media|published: Sun 28th January, 14:34 2024

Dec 14, 2023; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Columbus Blue Jackets forward Patrik Laine (29) gets congratulated after scoring against the Toronto Maple Leafs during the first period at Scotiabank Arena. credits: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

Columbus Blue Jackets forward Patrik Laine entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program to receive care for an undisclosed issue and will be unavailable to his team for an indefinite period.

Laine will return to the Blue Jackets when he is cleared for on-ice competition by the program administrators, the league said on Sunday.

Blue Jackets coach Pascal Vincent said Saturday that Laine had a setback in his recovery from a broken clavicle, an injury he sustained on Dec. 14 against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

"Patrik has our complete support, and our sole concern is his well-being," Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen said. "Out of respect for Patrik, we will have no further comment."

Laine, 25, has sustained seven injuries since Columbus acquired him and forward Jack Roslovic in a January 2021 trade that sent Pierre-Luc Dubois to the Winnipeg Jets.

Laine had nine points (six goals, three assists) in 18 games this season.

In 480 regular-season games with the Jets (2016-21) and Blue Jackets, Laine has recorded 204 goals and 184 assists (388 points). He was selected for the 2017 all-star game and 2016-17 NHL All-Rookie first team.

—Field Level Media

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