If you're willing to infer from his career trajectory, it would have been easy to conclude that this was to be Sam Gagner's last season in the NHL.
His one-year, $650,000 contract signed with the Columbus Blue Jackets at the beginning of August after single-season spells with the Arizona Coyotes and Philadelphia Flyers appeared the death knell for a skilled 27-year-old forward about to be sucked under the wave of talent continuing to rise in the NHL.
Oh the contrary.
Gagner scored twice, and factored in all four goals, leading the Blue Jackets to their fourth win in a row Monday night over the Coyotes. He now has 10 goals and 17 points in 23 games, surpassing his total in 53 games with Philadelphia last season.
His share of the team lead in goals has been a major factor in Columbus' best 24-game start in franchise history, and pulling to within a point of first place in the Metropolitan Division with two games in hand.
An eight-week run does not make a season, nor does it ensure an extended lease on life in the NHL. But for the time being, Gagner's made himself relevant once again.
And helped the Blue Jackets do the same.
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