Nathan Horton is probably more interested in helping the Columbus Blue Jackets make the playoffs than he is making some obscure NHL history, yet it appears that he’s in a position to become the answer to an odd sports trivia question.
Horton, 28, re-aggravated a lower-body injury in the Blue Jackets’ big game against the Phoenix Coyotes on Tuesday and won’t return. The potentially history-making part is that this issue may force Horton to miss Wednesday’s contest against the Dallas Stars - the contest that was rescheduled because of Rich Peverley’s health issues - which means he would “score a goal” in a game that he didn’t even suit up for.
The Columbus Dispatch’s Aaron Portzline explains this situation as well:
#CBJ Horton very unlikely to play on Wednesday vs. #Stars, making him the first #NHL player to score in a game in which he didn't dress.
— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) April 9, 2014
Also, his goal will be "registered" in tomorrow's game at 0:00 of the first period. But will not officially be fastest goal in #NHL history.
— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) April 9, 2014
Granted, Horton may very well play on Wednesday, but some might hope that he doesn’t so this odd little stat would be preserved.
#CBJ Nathan Horton had a setback tonight. Seems very likely he's done for the rest of the regular season, perhaps beyond.
— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) April 9, 2014