Blue Jackets share devastating update on rookie sensation Adam Fantilli

On January 28th, one of the NHL's premier young talents suffered a gruesome injury due to a skate laceration, which put his season in doubt. The play had occurred after Fantilli finished a check on Seattle's Jared McCann. As the two disengaged, McCann's skate came down across the back of Fantilli's leg. In case you haven't seen the replay, you can watch it below.

Originally, there was some concern that Fantilli may have suffered a cut Achilles tendon, which would have certainly ended his season. On Wednesday, reports confirmed that it was not an Achilles injury. However, it is still a very serious injury and may cost Fantilli the rest of his rookie season, though there is a chance that he might return towards the end of the season.

Per TSN's Chris Johnston, Fantilli suffered a calf laceration that is expected to sideline him for the next eight weeks. Johnston also revealed that Fantilli was wearing a kevlar sock, which almost certainly prevented an even worse injury.



For Fantilli to have suffered such an injury during his rookie season, it must be devastating for the 2023 3rd overall pick to endure. He was having one heck of a start to his young NHL career, having posted 12 goals and 27 points through 49 games. He was just a hair behind Connor Bedard in the Calder Trophy race at the time of his injury, with Bedard holding a 6-point lead over Fantilli with 33 points.

Awful news for Fantilli and the Blue Jackets. Hopefully he'll be able to return at some point this season and be able to end the year on his own terms.