Forward Alexandre Texier is doing better and it’s already showing on the ice.
The one who decided to leave the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2022-2023 to be close to his family after personal problems is back in the National Hockey League (NHL) this year.
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On Sunday, the Frenchman scored in the fourth minute of a preseason game against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
“It is a good feeling. “Obviously I don’t score 50 goals a year, so I’m happy every time I score,” Texier said after the game, whose comments were reported on his organization’s website.
The 24-year-old also spoke about his state of mind after overcoming his demons.
“I think you can see that, I’m smiling, I’m having fun and I’m enjoying myself,” he said. I was here all summer and came early to get used to the players, the staff and everyone else. It was great. I feel good.”
“It was huge,” said Texier about his return to Europe last year. It was my decision and now I’m moving on. But I learned a lot about myself, about my body and a lot of things off the ice, and of course also on the ice because I’m still young and have to learn again. But yeah, I think I’m mentally and physically ready. I had a very good summer. I’m making progress and I’m really excited.”
In the 2022-2023 season, Texier wore the colors of the Zurich Lions and collected 35 points in 46 games. He scored five points in nine playoff duels.
Good words from Vincent
New Blue Jackets head coach Pascal Vincent appears very happy to reunite with the forward, who was selected in the second round (45th overall) of the 2017 draft.
“Above all, Tex is an extraordinary person,” said the pilot. He is a great player. I feel like we missed him a lot last year. What I remember about Tex is that this version was better no matter who we played him with. He makes his teammates better. We’ve missed that kind of energy and he’s happy to be here. It’s good to have him back.”
In 123 career games with the Blue Jackets, Texier has 22 goals and 27 assists for 49 points.