Blue Jackets GM Confirms Star Rookie May Abandon the Team

This would be a huge blow to a team that can't handle too many more of them. However, the GM himself is confirming it may happen.

Jarmo Kekalainen Confirms Reports Regarding Star Rookie

The Columbus Blue Jackets are looking utterly awful so far this season. However, one bright spot has been the addition of rookie Dmitiri Voronkov. The 23-year-old waited to come to North America, choosing to play at home for a few years first, but has had no trouble fitting in so far, scoring 3 goals and 9 points in 15 games. In addition to that, Voronkov is a big guy and has no trouble throwing his weight around.

Reports that Star Rookie May Leave Team Confirmed by GM

Despite all this, a report from Russia stated Voronkov was not overly keen on life in the United States, and was really missing home. That, combined with the fact that he has an out clause in his contract that allows him to leave before Dec. 31, 2023, had many nervous. Now, Blue Jackets GM Jarmo Kekalainen has dropped a bomb, confirming the reports are true.




The interesting part of Voronkov's out clause is that it states he must still be playing in the AHL in order to use it. That said, I really can't see the team blocking his request if he's truly not happy and wants to leave. Another tough spot for Columbus in a season full of them.