The worst is confirmed for Patrik Laine!

The Columbus Blue Jackets’ holiday season has kicked off on the wrong foot as they announced on Friday that star forward Patrik Laine is expected to be sidelined six weeks with a clavicle fracture suffered in last night’s game against the Maple Leafs in Toronto.

After scoring the first goal of the 6-5 overtime win over the Leafs, Laine then suffered an upper-body injury after he crashed into the boards after being tripped by Toronto’s William Lagesson. Laine was seen holding his left shoulder as he left the ice.

It makes sense with today’s announcement that the poor guy knew something was off and broken, and will now have to nurse a clavicle fracture.

With his goal before he was forced to exit the contest, Laine is now up to six tallies and nine points in 18 outings this year.

The Blue Jackets return to action on Saturday when they host the New Jersey Devils and will need to make adjustments to their lineup before the contest.

Columbus needs to turn things around and quickly this season, however, Laine's absence certainly won't help their chances at fighting for a playoff spot this spring.

More to come...

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