Columbus Blue Jackets To Terminate Forward's Contract

The Columbus Blue Jackets have placed forward Gregory Hofmann on waivers and will be terminating his contract.

Gregory Hofmann (CLB) on waivers to terminate...he had gone back to Switzerland
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) January 13, 2022

Hofmann was just suspended indefinitely earlier this week by Columbus for failing to report back to the team. The 29-year-old took a leave of absence due to personal reasons and has since been staying back home in Switzerland.

The Blue Jackets acquired Hofmann's rights from the Carolina Hurricanes during the last offseason for a 2022 seventh-round pick. He had just finished an excellent year in the National League, as he had 18 goals and 41 points in 36 games. During the two previous seasons, he also was close to a point-per-game player in the NL. Thus, there was a little excitement when he made Columbus' roster.

Yet, Hofmann's time with the Blue Jackets is now already over. In 24 games with the team this season, he had two goals and five assists. Overall, that's not bad production from a bottom-six winger, but now, it seems likely that he will once again be playing in the National League or somewhere else in Europe.