The Blue Jackets activated defenseman Zach Werenski off injured reserve and assigned defenseman David Jiricek to the AHL.
Werenski has missed the team's last 10 games after suffering an ankle injury on Dec. 27 against the Devils. In 34 games this season, he leads the team with 24 assists and is tied for second among Blue Jackets with 25 points. According to BlueJackets.com's Jeff Svoboda, Werenski will take Andrew Peeke's spot in the lineup and Daniil Tarasov will start in goal.
Jiricek, the No. 6 overall pick in the 2022 Draft, hasn't played in the NHL since Jan. 9 and played two games for the Cleveland Monsters on Friday and Saturday, posting three assists. In 36 NHL games this season, Jiricek has recorded 1-8--9. The Monsters face the Hartford Wolfpack in a two-game set on Friday and Saturday in Cleveland.
David Jiricek's timeline:
— Coby Maeir (@CobyMaeir) January 25, 2024
Jan. 09: Played for CBJ @ WIN
Jan. 13: Scratch for CBJ vs SEA
Jan. 15: Scratch for CBJ vs VAN
Jan. 18: Sent to AHL
Jan. 19: Played for CLE
Jan. 20: Played for CLE
Jan. 21: Recalled by CBJ
Jan. 23: Scratch for CBJ @ EDM
Jan. 25: Sent to AHL#CBJ
The Blue Jackets play the second game of their five-game road trip Thursday at 9 p.m. ET against the Calgary Flames on Bally Sports Ohio.
