Alexandre Texier is set to return to the Columbus Blue Jackets for the 2023-24 NHL season after spending a year playing closer to home for personal reasons. A native of Saint-Martin-d’Hères, France, Texier played for Zurich in the Swiss National League following a recommendation of the NHL/NHLPA substance abuse and behavioral health program to step away from Columbus.
Texier revealed that he decided to move to Europe as a means of being closer to his family as he experienced personal issues. He was previously granted a leave of absence by the Blue Jackets in March 2022 when he was sidelined with a fractured finger.
“Alexandre Texier is an outstanding, young player who is an important part of our team and we are excited that he will be rejoining the club as expected next season,” Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen announced. “His well-being has been our sole priority, and we couldn’t be happier that he is ready to resume what is a very promising NHL career at this time.”
