Latvian goalie Merzlikins to miss start of NHL season

Columbus Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell said on Wednesday that Latvian goaltender Elvis Merzlikins will not be starting the new National Hockey League (NHL) season in the near future.

The club has not publicly provided further details on why the experienced goaltender will be unavailable for the team's roster at the start of the season, nor has it indicated a possible timeline for his return to the ice.

Merzlikins is one of the most recognized Latvian hockey players, having established himself in recent years as Columbus's primary goaltender. The news of his absence at the start of the season raises additional uncertainty for both the club's management and fans awaiting the new season's opening.

Further details on the situation are expected in the coming days, when the club may offer additional clarification regarding the goaltender's health status or other circumstances affecting his participation at the start of the season.