Alexandre Texier released by the Blue Jackets

It was in a press release this Wednesday that the Columbus Blue Jackets announced that their forward Alexandre Texier would not defend their colors next season in the NHL. The move follows a recommendation from the North American Professional Ice Hockey Championship’s Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program and the NHL Players’ Association.

The 22-year-old French international, who had been granted leave in March due to two deaths in his family, recently warned his managers that he did not feel capable of continuing his career with the Blue Jackets. “Over the past year, I have experienced personal issues and challenges and I feel the need to be close to my family, he says in a press release. I sincerely appreciate the support, help and empathy received from the team management, coaches, doctors, therapists and my teammates. It’s a tough decision, but it’s the best one for me today. »

Expected rebound in a European club

Comments seem to be shared by the general manager of the Columbus franchise, Jarmo Kekalainen: “His mental health and well-being remain our priority and we will continue to support him in every way possible. »

Next season, Texier will therefore not receive a salary from the Blue Jackets and will not count in the calculation of their payroll. But he received permission from his club to sign a one-season contract with a European team.