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Jackets’ leading scorer Atkinson in walking boot, and ‘not for fashion reasons’

Los Angeles Kings v Columbus Blue Jackets

COLUMBUS, OH - DECEMBER 20: Cam Atkinson #13 of the Columbus Blue Jackets celebrates after scoring a goal during the second period of the game against the Los Angeles Kings on December 20, 2016 at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Kirk Irwin/Getty Images)

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Thursday’s hotly anticipated Penguins-Blue Jackets game -- and yes, it still feels weird writing that -- could be without a major figure, as Cam Atkinson spent Wednesday in a walking boot after blocking a shot in Tuesday’s win over the Kings.

“We’ll see how it feels tomorrow,” Atkinson, the club’s leading scorer, told the Dispatch. “It’s precautionary, that’s why I’m wearing (the boot). It’s not for fashion reasons.”

Breaths of relief were collectively sighed in Columbus today, as X-rays revealed Atkinson didn’t break any bones.

“Personally, I’m a pretty fast healer,” he added. “Hopefully, I will be able to rock and roll.”

On a surprisingly good team filled with surprisingly good individual efforts, Atkinson is near the top of the list. He currently sits 15th in the league in goals (14), 21st in assists (19) and eighth in points (33). Those 33 points puts him head of guys like Tyler Seguin, Jamie Benn and Claude Giroux.

Atkinson’s scoring is even more impressive given he and the Jackets have only played 30 games this year, tied with Washington for the fewest thus far.

He’s a big reason why the Jackets have won 10 straight, and can move into sole possession of first place in the Eastern Conference with a win tomorrow.