Oct 12, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Casey Mittelstadt (37) scores against Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender Daniil Tarasov (40) and defenseman Erik Gudbranson (44) in the second period at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

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Blue Jackets Welcome Back Erik Gudbranson & Sean Monahan from Injury

Columbus boosts its lineup with the return of Gudbranson and Monahan, aiming for a strong finish to the season.

The Columbus Blue Jackets are getting a much-needed boost as two key players, Erik Gudbranson and Sean Monahan, are finally returning from long-term injuries. The team has been battling through a tough season, and the return of these experienced players couldn’t come at a better time.

Gudbranson, a veteran defenseman, has been out of action since October 15, when he suffered a shoulder injury in the team’s home opener against the Florida Panthers. The injury required surgery, forcing him to miss 66 games. His absence left a noticeable gap on the Blue Jackets blue line, as he brings not only defensive stability but also a physical presence that the team has been lacking.

The 33-year-old has played for multiple teams throughout his NHL career, including the Calgary Flames, Ottawa Senators, and Vancouver Canucks. Since joining Columbus in 2022, he has been a reliable presence on the back end, and now, after months of recovery, he is finally ready to lace up his skates again.

TRANSACTIONS: #CBJ have activated defenseman Erik Gudbranson and forward Sean Monahan off Injured Reserve.https://t.co/cJlgNnQb0T
— CBJ Public Relations (@BlueJacketsPR) March 24, 2025

On the offensive side, Monahan’s return is just as significant. The 30-year-old forward suffered a wrist injury on January 7 against the Pittsburgh Penguins and had to undergo surgery later that month. Before his injury, Monahan was one of Columbus’ top performers, racking up 14 goals and 27 assists in just 41 games. He made an immediate impact after signing with the Blue Jackets last summer, setting a franchise record by becoming the first player to hit 40 points in his first 41 games with the team. His return will provide much-needed firepower to the Blue Jackets’ offense, which has struggled at times without him.

With both Gudbranson and Monahan back in the mix, Columbus hopes to strengthen its playoff push. The team has had its fair share of struggles this season, but having two experienced players return at such a critical time could make all the difference. Their leadership, skill, and determination will be essential as the Blue Jackets fight for every point in the standings.

The Blue Jackets return to action tonight against the New York Islanders at UBS Arena. Fans can tune in to watch the game live at 7:30 p.m. ET on FanDuel Sports Network Ohio, with pre-game coverage starting at 7 p.m. ET. With two key players back on the ice, Columbus will be looking to make a strong statement as they push toward the playoffs.

Image Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Erik Gudbranson

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Sean Monahan

Anamika Shrivastava

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