The Columbus Blue Jackets haven't been off to the best start this season only getting three points in four games. Lacking offensive firepower, they could use a reshuffling of the deck chairs. They may need to wait a little while for one reinforcement to come back and join the ranks.
Forward Mikko Koivu has yet to play a game this season for the Blue Jackets and it appears that he is not joining their ranks quite yet. Koivu is on the NHL's list of COVID Protocol Related Absences. At a minimum, Koivu can join the team ten days after his positive test.
#CBJ C Mikko Koivu remains on the NHL's list of COVID Protocol Related Absences, as do Detroit forwards Robby Fabbri and Adam Erne.
— Jeff Svoboda (@JacketsInsider) January 19, 2021
Koivu went on the list on January 13 and the date of his first test remains unknown. That does mean that Koivu's time on the list should be coming to an end shortly even if the date hasn't been shared.
Koivu came into the season expected to take over the third line center role for the team and provide depth in an area that has desperately needed it.
In 55 games last season for the Minnesota Wild, Koivu scored 4 goals and contributed 17 assists for a total of 21 points. That was the lowest amount in his career since his rookie season.
The Blue Jackets next play Thursday, January 21 at Nationwide Arena. For now, the Koivu waiting game continues.
