Blue Jackets evaluate goaltending options following surgery for Elvis Merzlikins

The Columbus Blue Jackets are assessing their goaltending depth after Elvis Merzlikins underwent surgery on his shoulder August 17. The 32-year-old goalie remains out indefinitely, with the team awaiting a medical evaluation in the first week of September to determine his expected recovery timeline. President and general manager Don Waddell indicated that while the club is monitoring free agents and potential trade opportunities, no immediate roster moves are planned. The team currently holds Jet Greaves, who served as the primary starter late last season, and recently signed Pheonix Copley for additional organization depth. Waddell plans to monitor training camp developments across the NHL to see if other teams carry three goaltenders, which could provide further options if Merzlikins requires an extended absence.

• 5:49 PMYahoo Sports — Elvis Merzlikins' surgery has Columbus Blue Jackets gauging net depth