Blue Jackets' Laine returns after 19-game absence

Patrik Laine is officially back.

The Columbus Blue Jackets sniper played Thursday night against the Nashville Predators for the first time since Nov. 3. Laine missed 19 games during that span due to an oblique injury.

"It's been a frustrating two months sitting on the sideline and just watching other guys play and not being able to help," Laine said earlier Thursday, according to NHL.com's Craig Merz. The winger added that he was excited to play and "definitely ready."

The Blue Jackets could use the boost. The club started the season 6-3-0 with Laine in the lineup but went 8-10-1 without him. Columbus was just 2-7-1 in its last 10 games entering Thursday's contest.

Laine was off to a strong start before the injury, tallying three goals and seven assists in nine appearances.

The Finnish forward skated on the team's top line with captain Boone Jenner and veteran playmaker Jakub Voracek.

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