Well, I thought all four Columbus players representing Team Russia in the Winter Olympics survived the tournament uninjured. Turns out I was wrong. D Fedor Tyutin suffered an ankle injury at some point during the games, presumably in the squad's final contest against Finland, and will miss two to three weeks. It's unclear if that is two to three weeks of NHL action, a period covering up to 11 games, or two to three weeks from today, when the injury was disclosed.

Either way the loss of Tyutin stings. He's one of the club's most dependable blue-liners, currently tied for third on the team in +/- rating and ranking second in goals, assists and points among defensemen. With just six blue-liners currently on the active roster, including Tyutin, expect a player to be recalled from Springfield to fill his spot. My guess would be either Tim Erixon or Dalton Prout.

With the trade deadline nearing, it's possible the injury to Tyutin might alter or shape Jarmo Kekalainen's plans. Ankle injuries can be unpredictable in terms of recovery and take a while to heal so any setbacks could prompt Keka to target another regular defenseman for the club's stretch run.

More as the situation develops.

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