Blue Jackets' Patrik Laine set to return vs. Coyotes

The Columbus Blue Jackets are now 3-4 on the year after an impressive victory over the New York Rangers on Sunday. They will now start a two-game homestand starting with the Arizona Coyotes this evening and received some great news this morning. Patrik Laine is ready to get back into the starting lineup, skating with Boone Jenner and Johnny Gaudreau at this morning’s skate.

Laine, 24, was injured in the first game, less than eight minutes into his season. He had already scored, something that will happen quite a few more times this year, especially if he’s hitting the ice across from Gaudreau on a regular basis. The enigmatic winger has settled into his own in Columbus, scoring 56 points in 56 games last season and signing a four-year, $34.8M deal to stick around.

The Metropolitan Division is wide open to start the year, with just three points separating first from seventh. Getting Laine back this quickly is a huge boost for a Columbus team that expects to contend for a playoff spot after spending so much money in the offseason. Not only was Laine extended and Gaudreau brought in, but Erik Gudbranson was given a four-year deal, Adam Boqvist was signed to a bridge contract, and Andrew Peeke was handed an extension.

If they can get rolling with their Finnish sniper back in the mix, it’ll be an even more exciting fight in the east.