srThe NHL trade deadline may be done, but we’ve got plenty of NHL rumours left over. All of trades have been made, but now we get into signings and other roster moves. The upcoming offseason offers a chance for players to return from overseas back into the league. One player in particular may return to the Columbus Blue Jackets after attending to personal matter. Today’s NHL rumours takes a look at a possible Alexandre Texier return.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Return
Alexandre Texier Return Likely Next Season
Rumour: The Athletic’s Aaron Portzline talked to Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen about the French forward’s future with the team. Kekalainen said that Texier has made a long-term commitment to the team and should be back for the 2023-24 campaign. The 23-year-old has been playing with the Swiss National League’s ZSC Lions this season. He was given special permission to play in Europe on the recommendation NHL/NHLPA Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program.
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3. Snacks: Updates on Texier, Kuraly, Dillinger, Ceulemanshttps://t.co/8WULFKCYey pic.twitter.com/x7YyqmBkPT— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) March 6, 2023
Texier’s contract did not count against the salary cap and he was being paid by the Swiss club. Kekalainen added that the young forward is in a good place mentally and will address the media at the start of next season. ZSC Lions just started their playoffs this season.
What an Alexandre Texier Return Means
Columbus has struggled this season and fell way below expectations. Many thought Johnny Gaudreau‘s addition would power Columbus to a playoff spot. However, that’s not worked out. The Jackets have stunk this season, but could get injection with Connor Bedard coming if Columbus wins the lottery.
Adding Texier would also help out. He only scored 11 goals in his last season in North America. However, he got 13 goals for the Zurich-based club in 46 games. Columbus is in a bad place now, but light may be at the end of the tunnel if it lands the top prize of Bedard. Texier would also be a welcomed boost to the forward group.
Main photo by: Russell LaBounty-USA TODAY Sports
