Suspended Blue Jacket Forward Signs Overseas

Following a very difficult year for personal reasons, it was announced on Wednesday that Alexandre Texier would not return to the Columbus Blue Jackets for the upcoming NHL season. He has now signed on to play in Switzerland, with Zurich of the Swiss NLA. 

#CBJ forward Alexandre Texier has joined ZSC Lions in Zurich, Switzerland, for the upcoming season. Good chance for him to still play high-level hockey. Former teammates Dean Kukan and Mikko Lehtonen are also on the roster. https://t.co/lMd0tDBaEm

— Jeff Svoboda (@JacketsInsider) August 25, 2022

The 22-year-old forward has faced a number of challenges, and had taken a leave of absence from Columbus last season in March. Being overseas, closer to his home in France, was necessary for him at this time. 

"During the past year, I have experienced some personal issues and challenges and I feel I need to be close to my family at this time," Texier said in a statement.

He was technically put under suspension by the Blue Jackets, leaving him able to sign a one-year contract in Europe for the season, while he still has a year remaining on his contract with Columbus for 2023-24.   

"While we are disappointed 'Tex' will not be joining us for the 2022-23 season as we anticipated, his mental health and well-being remain our top priority and we will continue to support him in any way we can," said Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen.

The ZSC Lions of Zurich indicate that they'll use Texier as both a center and a wing for the coming season.

Photos: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports, John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports