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Blue Jackets' Markus Nutivaara: Surgery deemed successful, back in four months

As noted by Portzline, the expected return date puts Nutivaara at risk of missing the start of training camp. The Finnish blueliner showed flashes of brilliance in his rookie campaign -- including a two-point outburst against the Penguins in the conference quarterfinals -- but the Jackets' acquisition of veteran defenseman Kyle Quincey at the trade deadline prevented Nutivaara from being a lineup mainstay. Still, he's already defied the odds as a seventh-round pick from the 2015 draft, and the future looks bright for the soon-to-be 23-year-old.

Blue Jackets' Markus Nutivaara: Will have hip surgery

Nutivaara is facing a four-month recovery, which should have him ready for the start of the 2017-18 campaign. The 22-year-old will want to get back as quickly as possible given he will be competing for a spot on the 23-man roster with the likes of Ryan Murray, Scott Harrington and Gabriel Carlsson. As a rookie, Nutivaara recorded two goals and five helpers in 66 outings while averaging a mere 13:13 of ice time. Unless the blueliner can secure a more consistent role, fantasy owners may want to consider other options.

Blue Jackets' Markus Nutivaara: Two points in playoff debut

It's safe to expect the rookie to be right back in the lineup for Game 5 after that effort. That said, Nutivaara had just two goals and five assists in 66 regular-season appearances, and he skated only 9:37 in this one, so a repeat performance likely isn't in the cards.

Blue Jackets' Markus Nutivaara: Watching from press box Saturday

According to this report, Scott Harrington will replace the rookie in the lineup. Blue Jackets coach John Tortorella said "I need more from Nuuti."

Blue Jackets' Markus Nutivaara: Back at it Tuesday

Nutivaara will bump the newly acquired Kyle Quincey from the lineup after serving as a healthy scratch for the past three games. The rookie has shown well defensively in limited action, fashioning a plus-8 rating with 28 hits and 30 blocked shots over 53 games despite averaging a meager 13:02 of ice time.