Columbus Blue Jackets’ center, Adam Fantilli, is set to miss approximately eight weeks due to a calf laceration sustained during a game against the Seattle Kraken. General Manager Jarmo Kekalainen confirmed the news, revealing that the injury occurred when Fantilli’s left leg was struck by a skate blade at Climate Pledge Arena last Sunday.
The 19-year-old rookie has been making a significant impact in the 2023-24 NHL season, ranking third-T in goals and fourth in points among all rookies. Fantilli boasts impressive statistics, with 12 goals and 15 assists, accumulating 27 points in 49 games. Additionally, he holds the second position among first-year players for shots on goal, registering 115.
Hailing from Nobleton, Ontario, Fantilli was the third overall pick by Columbus in the 2023 NHL Draft. In the previous season (2022–23), he made history as the third freshman to clinch the Hobey Baker Memorial Award for the top U.S. collegiate player. During his time at the University of Michigan, Fantilli recorded 30 goals, 35 assists, and 65 points in 36 games. His outstanding performance earned him First Team All-America and First Team All-Big Ten honors, contributing to the Wolverines’ advancement to the NCAA Frozen Four.
The Blue Jackets are set to resume play after the NHL All-Star and midseason breaks on February 10 against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Nationwide Arena. Live coverage on Bally Sports Ohio, Bally Sports +, and the Bally Sports app will begin at 6:30 p.m. ET with the Blue Jackets Live pre-game show, followed by the game at 7 p.m. ET. The radio broadcast will be available on the Blue Jackets Radio Network, including 105.7 FM in Columbus, and online at BlueJackets.com.
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