Isac Lundestrom's Achilles Injury Causes Long Absence for Columbus Blue Jackets

Isac Lundestrom's Achilles injury could keep him out for up to a year, which is much longer than the initial November estimate. This is a major setback for his contract year.
By Newsroom | NHL, Columbus |

Isac Lundestrom, a forward for the Columbus Blue Jackets, is reportedly sidelined with an Achilles injury sustained during recent training. The severity and exact timeline for his return remain uncertain, with conflicting reports suggesting recovery could range from November to a significantly longer period. This latest injury adds a layer of complication to Lundestrom's contract year and his role within the team.

Uncertain Recovery Timeline

Reports from Sweden, including statements from Lundestrom himself to Norbottens-Kuriren, indicate a "sharp pain" felt in his right foot during a training session. While initial assessments from General Manager Don Waddell present a Novato estimate, another test suggests a much longer absence. This ambiguity is particularly concerning given the typical recovery period for Achilles injuries, which can take up to a year. Lundestrom has previously dealt with an Achilles issue during summer training, making this a recurring problem.

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Impact on the Blue Jackets and Lundestrom's Contract

The potential long-term absence of Lundestrom could leave the Blue Jackets without a key center, especially with the season approaching. Lundestrom, a 26-year-old, signed with Columbus last summer after being non-tendered by Anaheim. He has primarily filled a bottom-six, often fourth-line, center role during his eight-year NHL career. His current contract is expiring, making this injury particularly ill-timed for potential future negotiations.

"During a training session, I felt a sharp pain in my right foot," Lundestrom reportedly told Norbottens-Kuriren.

Lundestrom was previously placed on Injured Reserve on December 30, 2025, with a lower-body injury suffered in practice on December 27. He was activated off IR on January 20, 2026, after missing 12 games. His statistical contributions this season, prior to the current reported injury, include one goal and four assists for five points in 35 games, averaging 12:22 of ice time.

Background

Lundestrom's NHL career has seen him play for both the Anaheim Ducks and the Columbus Blue Jackets. He has accumulated 36 goals and 53 assists for 89 points in 372 career regular-season games. Internationally, he has represented Sweden at the World Junior Championships twice. The Blue Jackets have also recently made other roster moves, including the signing of Ryan Lomberg and the potential re-signing of Erik Gudbranson.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What injury does Isac Lundestrom have?
Isac Lundestrom has an Achilles injury in his right foot, which he felt during a recent training session.
Q: How long will Isac Lundestrom be out?
The exact time for his return is unclear, with some reports suggesting he might miss the entire season, potentially up to a year.
Q: How does this injury affect the Columbus Blue Jackets?
The team may be without a key center for the upcoming season, impacting their lineup and strategy.
Q: What does this mean for Isac Lundestrom's contract?
This injury is ill-timed as it is his contract year, making future negotiations more difficult due to his uncertain availability.
Q: Has Lundestrom had Achilles problems before?
Yes, he had a similar Achilles issue during summer training, making this a recurring concern for the player and the team.