For Cayden Lindstrom, it’s better late than never.
The highly-rated prospect of the Columbus Blue Jackets is scheduled to make his season debut for the Medicine Hat Tigers. This return will occur in Game 1 of the WHL final against the visiting Spokane Chiefs on Friday. Medicine Hat coach Willie Desjardins confirmed this news to James Tubb of the Medicine Hat News.
Lindstrom, who was selected fourth overall by the Blue Jackets in last year’s draft, has been sidelined for the entire season due to a back injury. He underwent surgery for the injury in November.
Aaron Portzline of The Athletic reports that Lindstrom began skating again in February while in Columbus and has been practicing with the Tigers team since early last month.
The talented 6-foot-4 center was very effective last season, recording 27 goals and 19 assists for a total of 46 points in only 32 games played for the Tigers.
In related team news, Calgary Flames prospect Andrew Basha is also expected to return to the Medicine Hat lineup on Friday.
Basha, a forward taken 41st overall in the second round by Calgary last year, has been out of action since December due to an ankle injury.
The formidable Tigers squad is led by Gavin McKenna, who is considered a top prospect for the 2026 NHL Entry Draft.
Tristan Blackwood