The Columbus Blue Jackets are back in action again tonight against the Toronto Maple Leafs. It is the second half of a back-to-back, and they will have to do it without Erik Gudbranson, who remains out with an injury.
Gudbranson was initially injured against the Minnesota Wild back on Saturday, Oct. 11. He has been dealing with an upper-body injury. However, he was able to return for the games against the Washington Capitals and Pittsburgh Penguins on Oct. 24 and 25. Unfortunately, he was unable to play in last night's game due to hip soreness, and that is plaguing him again for the game against the Maple Leafs.
Head coach Dean Evason spoke with the media just minutes ago and said he is out and being evaluated.
It is no secret that Gudbranson has struggled with injuries over the last two seasons. But the hope is that this is just a minor injury and he can return and be on the blue line for the majority of the season.
He is a veteran defenseman who isn't shy to throw his weight around and stand up for his teammates. And because he is a 15-year veteran, he can also help the younger players on the backend during games and be a voice in the locker room.
His presence on this team is irreplaceable. The Blue Jackets need him healthy and back on the blue line as soon as possible. But for now, he has to work through the hip soreness and hopefully that won't take too long.
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