This was supposed to be the year Josh Anderson broke out as a star.
Instead, it's been nothing short of hell for the fast, powerful Blue Jackets winger.
After notching 27 goals and 47 points last season, Anderson looked poised to break the 30-goal threshold this year. That certainly hasn't been the case.
Anderson has only played 26 games this season, and he's only scored one goal. On December 14th in a game against the Ottawa Senators, Anderson injured his shoulder and did not return. Initially, Anderson was expected to miss 4-6 weeks. It's been over 10 now.
Throughout the season, Anderson didn't look to be his typical self, leading to speculation that he may have been carrying an injury up until he couldn't play through it anymore.
On HNIC tonight, @FriedgeHNIC reported that Josh Anderson's injury is believed to be "more long-term," and it doesn't sound like he will be in play at Monday's trade deadline. #CBJ
— 1st Ohio Battery (@1stOhioBattery) February 23, 2020
There were lots of whispers about Anderson being dealt at the trade deadline, but with the news that his injury is believed to be more long-term, the odds are lower that he'll be moved before 3:00 p.m. today.
Anderson is a pending RFA, and he famously held out for over three months before agreeing to a three-year deal with the Blue Jackets in 2017.
In a season that's been filled with devastating injuries for the Blue Jackets, Anderson's is another gut punch.
