The Blue Jackets added defenseman David Jiricek to the roster on an emergency recall on Thursday. This move comes after Zach Werenski did not practice on Thursday after blocking a shot in the team's 4-3 overtime loss to Detroit on Tuesday. However, head coach Pascal Vincent said that "he's hopeful" that Werenski will play on Friday vs. Colorado.
#CBJ coach Pascal Vincent said post-practice hes hopeful Zach Werenski can play tomorrow, but theyre still waiting on test results. Blocked that shot late in the Detroit game and was pretty gimpy afterwards. Did not practice today.
— Jeff Svoboda (@JacketsInsider) March 21, 2024
In 36 NHL games this season, Jiricek, the No. 6 overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft, has posted 1-8--9. In 24 AHL games in 2023-24, he's recorded 7-10--17.
Jiricek hasn't been with the Blue Jackets since Jan. 24 and hasn't played in an NHL game since Jan. 9.
David Jiricek's timeline:
— Coby Maeir (@CobyMaeir) January 25, 2024
Jan. 09: Played for CBJ @ WIN
Jan. 13: Scratch for CBJ vs SEA
Jan. 15: Scratch for CBJ vs VAN
Jan. 18: Sent to AHL
Jan. 19: Played for CLE
Jan. 20: Played for CLE
Jan. 21: Recalled by CBJ
Jan. 23: Scratch for CBJ @ EDM
Jan. 25: Sent to AHL#CBJ
The Blue Jackets face off against the Avalanche on Friday at 9 p.m. ET and play the Golden Knights on Saturday at 10:30 p.m. ET.
