Merzlikins left Saturday's practice with a lower-body injury and will not be available for Sunday's game vs. the Sabres. With Joonas Korpisalo also hurt, J-F Berube will get the start for Columbus.

Merzlikins missed the last three games with a lower-body injury but will serve as Joonas Korpisalo's backup on Tuesday. This is a positive step for Merzlikins, who is likely in line to start Thursday in Carolina.

Merzlikins missed Monday's practice with "lower-body discomfort" and is not expected to dress on Tuesday. The Blue Jackets recalled J-F Berube from Cleveland (AHL) to serve as Joonas Korpisalo's backup.