As the Columbus Blue Jackets face mounting injuries, General Manager Don Waddell highlights the issues stemming from a condensed schedule. Key players Kirill Marchenko and Zach Werenski suffered injuries recently, with Marchenko’s setback occurring during a morning skate. Werenski also left a game against the Washington Capitals due to an upper-body injury.
Key Players Impacted by Injuries
- Kirill Marchenko: Currently leads the team with 22 points.
- Zach Werenski: A crucial player with 21 points.
Waddell points out that the lack of rest for players directly contributes to the rising injury rates. During an interview on TSN 1050, he stated, “Rest for these players is a big factor.” He believes the compressed schedule is challenging for all teams, resulting in an uptick in injuries.
Trade Market Stalled by Injuries
The injury crisis is also influencing the trade market. Waddell explained that teams are hesitant to let go of players when many are competing for playoff spots. There are ongoing discussions, but teams are largely focused on trading “players for players” rather than considering draft picks or prospects.
- Recent road trip results: Out of a possible eight points, the Blue Jackets secured three.
- Columbus currently sits outside the playoff race ahead of American Thanksgiving.
Last season, Columbus narrowly missed the playoffs, finishing two points behind the Montreal Canadiens. Waddell took over as GM in May 2024 and has emphasized the need to build on the team’s strengths. “We needed to add a few pieces,” he remarked, referring to recent player acquisitions like Charlie Coyle and Miles Wood.
Playoff Aspirations Amid Challenges
The Blue Jackets are enduring a five-year playoff drought, with their last appearance in the 2019-20 bubble playoffs. As they prepare for a matchup against the Toronto Maple Leafs, the focus remains on overcoming the current adversities. Third-year forward Adam Fantilli has shown exceptional performance against Toronto, including a memorable overtime goal and a previous hat trick.
Waddell and his team are optimistic about the upcoming game. “We believe in this group and see the potential to reach our goal, which is to make the playoffs,” he concluded.
