As the 4 Nations break wraps up, the Columbus Blue Jackets received positive news on Wednesday with key players returning to the ice. Boone Jenner, Kirill Marchenko, and Dante Fabbro all participated in the team’s practice at Nationwide Arena.
Boone Jenner’s Anticipated Return
Boone Jenner, the Blue Jackets’ captain, is nearing his season debut after a lengthy recovery from shoulder surgery following an injury in training camp last October. Jenner’s full participation in practice marks a significant step toward rejoining the team, and while nothing is finalized yet, he is aiming to return for Saturday’s game against Chicago.
Jenner expressed his readiness: “I feel great. I feel like I’m ready to go,” and reiterated that returning on February 22 had been his goal for some time. His leadership and versatility will be a big boost for the team, as he is known for his faceoff skills, critical play in all situations, and ability to motivate teammates.
Kirill Marchenko’s Recovery from a Freak Injury
Marchenko, the team’s top scorer with 21 goals and a plus-31 rating, is also making his return after being sidelined by a freak accident. A stray puck struck him on the jaw during a game in Dallas, leading to surgery. However, he has been skating with the team, wearing a protective facemask. While Marchenko is optimistic, he remains cautious, stating he will evaluate how he feels in the next few days before committing to playing on Saturday.
“It’s fine,” Marchenko said about the mask. “I can’t skate without the mask right now.” He has been able to eat solid foods, unlike Jenner who faced a similar injury last season.
Dante Fabbro’s Return to the Blue Line
Fabbro, who was injured in Dallas after taking an elbow to the head, is back with the team and looking forward to resuming his role on the top defensive pair. Since joining the Blue Jackets from Nashville in November, Fabbro has played a key role on the blue line, contributing 13 points and a plus-14 rating in 37 games. His return provides stability and strengthens the defense as the Blue Jackets push for a playoff spot.
“I’m healthy now, and I feel great,” Fabbro said, looking ahead to the team’s first game back from the break.
With the team’s playoff hopes on the line, having these players back in the lineup will be a huge boost as the Blue Jackets face the Blackhawks on Saturday at Nationwide Arena.
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