A high-profile incident during a recent game saw forward Aleksander Barkov depart early after an awkward fall, raising concerns about his condition. Meanwhile, star winger Dylan Larkin has been ruled out for the next two contests, adding to the Columbus Blue Jackets' mounting injuries. The team’s defensive unit is already taking a heavy toll, with multiple blue line players reportedly struggling through the early stretch of the season. The combination of key absences and defensive vulnerabilities could reshape the Blue Jackets' near-term outlook.

Aleksander Barkov leaves after an awkward fall. Dylan Larkin out for the next two games. Blue Jackets blue line is beat up already.