Key Injury Updates: Jenner, Drouin, Maple Leafs News in the East

In a crucial announcement for the Columbus Blue Jackets, team captain Boone Jenner will return to action tonight against the Ottawa Senators. This comes after he missed a month due to an upper-body injury sustained on November 11. Head Coach Dean Evason confirmed the positive news, highlighting the importance of Jenner’s return as the team seeks to end a three-game losing streak.

Columbus is currently fighting for a playoff spot in the competitive Eastern Conference. With Jenner back in the lineup, the team hopes to spark a turnaround. In his 16 games before the injury, Jenner recorded 10 points and averaged 16:06 minutes of ice time per game, contributing on both special teams.

Injury Updates from the Eastern Conference

Other noteworthy injury updates include New York Islanders forward Jonathan Drouin, who participated in the team’s morning skate. This marks Drouin’s first practice since experiencing a back injury that sidelined him since December 4, where he missed four games. The veteran player has scored 15 points, including three goals, in 26 appearances this season. Drouin is in the first year of a two-year contract valued at $4 million in average annual value.

Toronto Maple Leafs Injury News

In Toronto, two significant updates emerged from the Maple Leafs’ morning skate. Goaltender Joseph Woll returned to the ice for the first time following a lower-body injury that placed him on injured reserve. While it remains uncertain when he will be back in the lineup, this development is a positive sign for his recovery.

Additionally, defenseman Morgan Rielly was seen participating in morning skate after missing the last practice due to illness. Known as Toronto’s top defenseman, Rielly averages 22 minutes of ice time and has recorded 22 points in 28 games this season, making his potential return a boost for the Maple Leafs.

• Boone Jenner: Returning tonight after a month-long recovery from an upper-body injury.
• Jonathan Drouin: Returned to practice after missing four games with a back injury.
• Joseph Woll: Skated for the first time since a lower-body injury.
• Morgan Rielly: Back in practice after recovering from illness, crucial for Maple Leafs’ defense.

As the season progresses, these injury updates are vital for both Columbus and their competitors in the Eastern Conference playoff race.