Merzlikins Remains Out Indefinitely After Surgery; Blue Jackets Seeking Goalie, Update at Camp – The Hockey Writers – Columbus Blue Jackets

The Columbus Blue Jackets previously announced that goaltender Elvis Merzlikins had shoulder surgery. That took place back on Aug 17 after he reported feeling discomfort during offseason workouts.

At this point, it remains unknown when Merzlikins will be able to return. The Blue Jackets are in the market for another goaltender as a result.

Merzlikins Out Indefinitely

Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell provided an update as to where Merzlikins is at. the goaltender remains out indefinitely.

“No timeline,” Waddell said. “He went and saw the doctor (recently.) Once he gets in here, he’ll be here for the opening of camp. We’ll update it as we get closer.”

While the timeline for a potential Merzlikins return remains unclear, the team’s desire to add another goaltender is clear. The Blue Jackets are in the market to add.

“We’re probably going to be pretty close to a cap team when all this gets done,” Waddell said. “We’re going to add a goalie too at some point, along with Fantilli.”

Waddell indicated the only players that won’t be ready for the very start of camp will be Merzlikins and Isac Lundestrom. The Lundestrom timeline of sometime in November remains in tact as of now.

As for potential PTO’s, Waddell said he hasn’t inked anyone yet. But he does anticipate adding multiple players on PTO’s at all positions including a goaltender.

Jet Greaves and Pheonix Copley remain in line to start the season as the goaltending duo for the Blue Jackets while Merzlikins remains out indefinitely. We’ll see if a more firm timeline appears once camp begins.