Columbus Blue Jackets have received a colossal blow as their goaltender, Elvis Merzlikins, had to temporarily leave the team. Jeff Svoboda, the reporter of the CBJ, left the NHL fans concerned as he updated on Twitter about Merzlikins’ return home as his grandmother has been ill. As the Jackets are already having a terrible season and are placed in eighth position in the Metropolitan division, this won’t make things better. On the other hand, the General Manager of the Jackets, Jarmo Kekalainen, announced the new addition to their team.
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The official Twitter account of the CBJ revealed Daniil Tarasov as a replacement on an emergency call. Tarasov has been a part of Cleveland Monsters, CBJ’s American Hockey League affiliate. Let us have a look at what the concerned fans have to say about the situation.
NHL fans shared tons of love and support for the Merzlikins family
Elvis Merzlikins has left for his home as his grandmother is critically ill. Jeff Svoboda tweeted, “Goaltender Elvis Merzlikins will be away from the team temporarily. His grandmother is seriously ill and he has returned to Latvia to be with family. #CBJ” However, the CBJ has called another substantial 23-year-old goaltender to take his place temporarily. On the other hand, it is a great opportunity for the youngster to showcase his talent.
Goaltender Elvis Merzlikins will be away from the team temporarily. His grandmother is seriously ill and he has returned to Latvia to be with family. #CBJ https://t.co/uJfrFJ5Q0f
— Jeff Svoboda (@JacketsInsider) March 10, 2023
As we talk about his stats in NHL, Tarasov has played 17 games in his NHL career, since he debuted in 2021-22. Moreover, he has posted a 2-11-1 record with a 3.10 GAA and a .914 save percentage. In the absence of Merzlikins, it will be interesting to see if this youngster can help break the losing streak of three games for the CBJ.
Moving on, let us have a look at the heartfelt comments of the NHL fans supporting Merzlikins’ family with their prayers and good wishes.
Nothing but love to Elvis and his family right now. This guy has been through hell and back these last few years. #CBJ https://t.co/3TtIVSe92o
— Jared McCHOP ON (@TheATLGoon) March 10, 2023
I know I give Elvis a hard time, but man this one hits hard and I pray for her comfort as well as his during this tragic time in his life. My grandmother is my rock and I can’t imagine the day when I have to deal with this exact same situation. Big time love, Elvis. 💔#CBJ https://t.co/00vNPb87Hl
— Ole CBJ Dad, just here for Pizza and Cannon Blasts (@CBJ_Dad0424) March 10, 2023
All the thoughts, prayers, and love to Elvis Merzlikins and his family. https://t.co/b406oCALNN
— Elaine Shircliff (@imaraindancer) March 10, 2023
Geez guy just can’t have good things this year. Meanwhile Hutchinson is going to play the most NHL games of his career even if he’s backing up tarry
— Morgan Bennett (@Morganleigh917) March 10, 2023
All the best to him and his family during this tough time https://t.co/k343J3D1Fn
— Robert (@Cujorulesdtown9) March 10, 2023
Recently, there have been several incidents of players getting injured and having troubles. In this case, although it is not a player’s injury, it is certainly a tough time for Elvis Merzlikins and his family. In addition to all the good wishes by the fans, we here at ES wish Elvis and his family good health and fast recovery for his grandmother.
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Gideon Mathson