35-goal scorer is a healthy scratch tonight!

Cam Atkinson, who signed a lucrative seven-year contract extension with the Columbus Blue Jackets three weeks ago, is missing tonight's game against the Arizona Coyotes as a healthy scratch.

Yeah. You read correctly.

The Blue Jackets called up Sonny Milano from AHL Cleveland when Tyler Motte was already on the active roster serving as a spare forward and then it was official.

#CBJ coach John Tortorella confirms that Cam Atkinson will be a healthy scratch tonight vs. Coyotes.
— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) December 9, 2017

Wow Cam Atkinson who they signed recently a huge contract for big term and money is already a healthy scratch in CBJ.
— Brian Wilde (@BWildeRecrutes) December 9, 2017

"I think I’m helping him," said head coach John Tortorella to several media members before the game. "You may think I’m crazy, but I do feel I’m helping Cam. I’m going to continue to try and help him.”

Last season, Atkinson recorded a career-high 35 goals for a total of 62 points in 82 games with the Jackets.

Atkinson did not comment before the game.

In 25 games this season, Atkinson has six goals and nine points, and a minus-1 rating.