Alexandre Texier suddenly leaves the Blue Jackets!

The Blue Jackets have just announced that forward Alexandre Texier won’t play the 2022-23 season in Columbus, continuing his leave of absence from last season.

Before details emerged, it was believed that Texier might get suspended without pay for his decision, however, it was made clear that his leave of absence was per the advice and recommendation of the NHL/NHLPA Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program.

The 22-year-old remains in Europe and play closer to his home and family near Grenoble, France. The Jackets have agreed that Texier will be permitted to sign a one-year contract to play in Europe for the 2022-23 season.  

"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. I have love and respect for the city of Columbus, the Blue Jackets, and the fans as everyone has always treated me first-class. I truly appreciate the support, help and empathy I have received from team management, the coaching staff, doctors, trainers and my teammates. This was a hard decision, but it is the best one for me right now." 

Last March, Texier was granted a leave of absence by the club after he suffered a finger injury on January 26 vs. Calgary.

The young forward set single-season career highs in goals and points with 11 goals and nine assists for 20 points with 12 penalty minutes, 59 shots and an “even” plus/minus rating, while averaging 14:36 of ice time in 36 contests in 2021-22. Texier was selected in the second round, 45th overall, at the 2017 NHL Draft, by Columbus. 

Texier has notched 22-27-49 with 44 penalty minutes and 189 shots in 123 career outings since making his NHL debut at the end of the 2018-19 campaign.