Provorov Trade Or Extension? The Columbus Blue Jackets' top prospect could be at risk of missing the entire 2024-25 season. Cayden Lindstrom was the organization's first-round draft pick last season and has yet to play in a game this season in the WHL. Lindstrom is recovering from offseason back surgery that has kept him out of action for the Medicine Hat Tigers. Unfortunately, both the Tigers and Blue Jackets have set out a five-stage plan for him before he can return to action. Currently, he is in stage 3, and with the WHL season winding down, it doesn't look promising. When Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell met with Aaron Portzline of The Athletic, he mentioned that Lindstrom may not be cleared to play in a full-contact game until late March or early April. He also said that Lindstrom will continue skating with Columbus' coaches rather than returning to Medicine Hat. Last season, Lindstrom had 27 goals and 19 assists for 46 points in 32 games. He also had 66 penalty minutes. The hope for the 19-year-old is that he returns to a clean bill of health and can be a major part of the Blue Jackets' success in the future. Until then, his focus will be on getting back to full health. What's Next: Zach Werenski and Team USA will take on Canada in the Championship game of the 4-Nations Face-Off on Thursday. The rest of the CBJ return on Saturday to play the Chicago Blackhawks [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/chicago-blackhawks/].
