Blue Jackets place David Clarkson on IR with back injury

David Clarkson brought his former captain Dion Phaneuf to the ice after the two scuffled in Columbus.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have placed forward David Clarkson on injured reserve with a back injury, the team announced Wednesday.

Clarkson fell after colliding awkwardly with San Jose Sharks centreman Joe Thornton during the third period of Tuesday’s 5-2 win. He was able to skate off the ice under his own power after the back-checking incident, and went to the dressing room shortly afterward. He did not return.

The team said the 31-year-old is expected to be out for at least one week. Clarkson has one assist in eight games this season.

To replace Clarkson, the Blue Jackets have called up winger Kerby Rychel from AHL affiliate Lake Erie Monsters. This will be Rychel’s second game with the big club this season. He had three assists in five games with the Blue Jackets last season.

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