COLUMBUS, Ohio — Columbus Blue Jackets captain Boone Jenner is facing a significant setback as he is set to miss the majority of the upcoming season due to shoulder surgery. The 31-year-old forward sustained a shoulder injury during a practice session last Friday, leading to the need for surgical intervention. The procedure took place at The Steadman Clinic in Vail, Colorado, just one day before the team’s season opener.
General manager Don Waddell expressed optimism regarding Jenner’s recovery, stating that the team’s hope is for him to potentially make a return before the conclusion of the season. Jenner, who has been serving as the team captain since the 2021-22 season, holds the distinction of being the franchise’s all-time leader in games played. Additionally, he ranks third in both goals scored and total points accumulated over the course of his career with the Blue Jackets.
During the previous season, Jenner played a key role for the team, finishing second in goals scored with a total of 22, while also contributing 13 assists. Waddell acknowledged the significant impact of Jenner’s absence, emphasizing that his leadership and on-ice performance will be missed. However, Waddell expressed confidence in the team’s existing leadership group and highlighted the opportunity for other players to step up and assume greater responsibilities both on and off the ice in Jenner’s absence.
Despite this setback, the Blue Jackets are gearing up to kick off their season with a game against the Minnesota Wild on Thursday night. As the team navigates the challenges posed by Jenner’s extended absence, they will be looking to rally together and adapt to ensure a competitive performance throughout the season.
As the Blue Jackets face the prospect of competing without their captain for a significant portion of the season, the focus will be on maintaining a cohesive team dynamic and fostering opportunities for emerging leaders to make their mark. The resilience and determination displayed by the team in overcoming this obstacle will be crucial in shaping their performance and trajectory in the upcoming season.
