We finally know the real reason why Texier left the Blue Jackets

On Wednesday, Columbus Blue Jackets forward Alexandre Texier announced that he will not join the team for the upcoming season because of unspecified personal problems.

“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,” the player said at the time in a statement. “This is a hard decision, but it is the best one for me right now.”

On Thursday, insider Elliotte Friedman explained the real reason behind Texier’s decision to stay put in France and play for Zurich of the Swiss NLA in 2022-23. On the latest 32 Thoughts podcast on Sportsnet, Friedman revealed how two members of Texier’s family died quick succession in recent months. Texier was emotionally and psychologically affected by the passings to the point of being unable to continue his professional career in the NHL, far from his family at the moment.

He felt the need to return to his family during the next year.

It is so easy to understand Texier’s decision. Life remains more important than hockey.

Texier was granted a leave of absence by the club last March after being sidelined due to a fractured finger. He recorded single-season career highs with 11 goals and nine assists last season, and an even plus-minus rating while averaging 14:36 of ice time in 36 games.