Patrik Laine Enters NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program for Undisclosed Issue

Forward Patrik Laine of the Columbus Blue Jackets will be taking an indefinite leave of absence from the team as he seeks care from the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. The program, jointly run by the NHLPA and NHL, will provide Laine with the necessary support and treatment.

The announcement was made public on Sunday through a statement released by the NHL, NHLPA, and the Blue Jackets organization. Laine’s return to the team will only happen once he has been cleared for on-ice competition by the program administrators.

Columbus Blue Jackets general manager and alternate governor Jarmo Kekalainen expressed full support for Laine, emphasizing that his well-being is the top priority for the organization. Kekalainen added that out of respect for Laine, no further comments will be provided at this time.

Laine, who is 25 years old, had been recovering from a fractured clavicle injury sustained during a game against the on December 14. He had accompanied the team on their recent road trip to Western Canada with the expectation of returning to play soon, but his sudden departure on Saturday indicated a setback in his recovery.

The exact nature of Laine’s undisclosed issue has not been revealed. The injury had already limited Laine to 18 games this season, during which he managed to score six goals and accumulate nine points. Prior to the clavicle injury, Laine had also missed nine games due to a concussion he suffered in October.

Since joining the Blue Jackets in January 2021 through a trade with the team, Laine has encountered numerous injury setbacks. Throughout his NHL career, which spans 479 games, Laine has recorded an impressive 203 goals and 387 points.