Columbus Blue Jackets expected to activate forward Cole Sillinger, boosting their lineup as they gear up for the next phase of the season.
The Columbus Blue Jackets are getting a much-needed boost ahead of their Friday clash against the Vancouver Canucks. Forward Cole Sillinger and defenseman Jake Christiansen have been medically cleared to return, providing reinforcements as the team continues its playoff chase.
Sillinger, 21, has been sidelined since February 27 after suffering a shoulder injury against the Detroit Red Wings. The timing was unfortunate, as he was in the midst of his most productive NHL season. General Manager Don Waddell had initially stated that Sillinger would miss a few weeks, and the young forward was placed on injured reserve shortly after to make room for winger Yegor Chinakhov’s activation. Now, with the post-trade deadline roster flexibility, no additional moves are required for his return.
Despite missing time, Sillinger has taken significant strides in his development this season. The 2021 No. 12 overall pick has bounced back from a tough sophomore slump, posting a career-high 0.39 assists per game and 0.54 points per game in the 2024-25 campaign. With 29 points (9 goals, 20 assists) in 54 games, he ranks ninth on the team in scoring. However, his club-worst -15 rating is something he’ll aim to improve as he re-enters the lineup. Sillinger has also logged 17:18 of ice time per game, the sixth-most among Blue Jackets forwards, and won 46.4% of his faceoffs.
Columbus has had its fair share of shoulder injuries this season, with key players like Kevin Labanc, Erik Gudbranson, and Boone Jenner all missing significant time. Labanc’s season was cut short last month, and Gudbranson only just returned after being sidelined since October.
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While it’s unclear who Sillinger will replace in the lineup, his return couldn’t come at a better time. The Blue Jackets sit just two points out of a wild-card spot, but with both the Islanders and Rangers in their way, the race remains tight. Following their shootout victory over the Islanders earlier this week, Columbus’ playoff chances stand at 13%, according to MoneyPuck. A Canucks win over the Isles would provide a much-needed boost.
Meanwhile, Christiansen has missed the last five games with an upper-body injury but had been a regular presence in Columbus’ first 65 games of the season. With Gudbranson back, Christiansen may remain a healthy scratch despite being cleared to play.
With the postseason within reach, every game counts. The return of Sillinger and Christiansen gives the Blue Jackets added depth as they battle for a playoff spot in the final stretch of the season.
Image Credit: Russell LaBounty-Imagn Images
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