Columbus Blue Jackets forward Marian Gaborik has not been medically cleared to return to action and will not participate in the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia.
Gaborik, who in January was named to Slovakia's 25-man Olympic roster, suffered a broken collarbone vs. the Philadelphia Flyers on Dec. 21.
"Marian has worked extremely hard and done everything possible to rehabilitate his injury and return to the ice with the hope of representing his country in Sochi," said Blue Jackets General Manager Jarmo Kekalainen. "We share his deep disappointment that he will not be able to do so, but are optimistic that he will be fully recovered very soon."
A native of Trencin, Slovakia, Gaborik has represented his country at several international tournaments including the Olympic Games (2006 & 2010), IIHF World Championships (2001, 2004, 2005 & 2007), the World Cup of Hockey (2004), IIHF World Junior Championships (1999 - Bronze & 2000), IIHF World U18 Championships (1999 & 2000) and IIHF European Junior Championships (1998).
"I'm extremely disappointed that I won't be able to play for Slovakia at the Olympic Games but understand the decision is the right one for my recovery and for the national team," said Gaborik. "I have been lucky and proud to represent my country at two Olympic Games and other international tournaments and look forward to doing so again in the future."
Gaborik, 31, has scored five goals and dished out seven assists for 12 points in 18 appearances with Columbus this season. In 787 career NHL games with the Blue Jackets, New York Rangers and Minnesota Wild, he has registered 341-345-686 and a plus/minus rating of +92. He has scored 40 or more goals in a season on three occasions, 2007-08, 2009-10 and 2011-12.
(via BlueJackets.com)
