James van Riemsdyk, left wing for the Columbus Blue Jackets, is defying conventional toughness in a shocking display of resilience. After suffering a severe injury that resulted in the loss of four teeth and extensive dental surgery, he is set to play in the upcoming match against the Dallas Stars. Van Riemsdyk was injured by a high stick from Ian Cole during a recent game against the Utah Hockey Club but returned to contribute to his team's victory. Although he underwent multiple procedures, including a bone graft and several root canals, he managed to rejoin his teammates with a protective cage on his helmet.

With 10 goals and 12 assists this season, van Riemsdyk's determination to play despite his injuries showcases his commitment and grit. He has garnered support from both fans and friends within the league, including Cole, whose family has checked in on him post-injury. This matchup against the Stars comes as the Blue Jackets hope to extend their winning streak to four games, and van Riemsdyk's presence on the ice could be pivotal.

In a striking performance, Adam Fantilli scored his first career hat trick, leading the Columbus Blue Jackets to a convincing 5-1 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs. The 20-year-old center, who was playing in front of family and friends, highlighted his gratitude for their support. Fantilli's goals included a short-handed effort in the first and two more, showcasing his offensive prowess. The Blue Jackets continue to thrive, now holding a 7-1-1 record over their last nine games, firmly securing a playoff position in the Eastern Conference. Columbus goalie Elvis Merzlikins praised Fantilli's hard work, while head coach Dean Evason commended his play against one of the league's best lines.

Dylan Larkin led the Detroit Red Wings to a decisive 5-2 victory over the Florida Panthers, scoring two goals, including a final empty-netter that sealed the game. Power-play goals from Jonatan Berggren, Patrick Kane, and a contribution from Marco Kasper helped the Red Wings extend their winning streak to eight out of nine games, with Cam Talbot making an impressive 40 saves. In contrast, the Panthers struggled, with Sergei Bobrovsky pulled after conceding four goals on just 15 shots.

In other NHL action, the Columbus Blue Jackets continued their winning ways, defeating the San Jose Sharks 4-1, led by James van Riemsdyk's two goals. The Toronto Maple Leafs edged the New Jersey Devils 4-3 in overtime thanks to William Nylander's second goal of the night, while the Tampa Bay Lightning triumphed over the Anaheim Ducks 4-3 in a shootout. The Philadelphia Flyers defeated the New York Islanders 5-3, and Alex Ovechkin's overtime goal propelled the Washington Capitals to a narrow 1-0 win over the Ottawa Senators.

James van Riemsdyk netted two goals, leading the Columbus Blue Jackets to a 4-1 victory over the San Jose Sharks, marking their six-game win streak, the franchise's longest since January 2020. Kent Johnson and Adam Fantilli also contributed, with Fantilli extending his point streak to eight games. The Blue Jackets showcased strong performance at home, improving to 16-5-3, while Sharks goalie Alexandar Georgiev faced 34 shots.

On a night celebrating Marc-Édouard Vlasic's 1,300th game, the Sharks struggled, managing only one goal from Tyler Toffoli. Columbus dominated early, scoring three unanswered goals and controlling the pace of the game, especially in the first two periods. Zach Werenski’s assist on Fantilli’s goal extended his home point streak to 18 games, tying him for the sixth-longest defenseman streak in NHL history.

As of January 1, 2025, three players from the Columbus Blue Jackets are eligible to sign contract extensions after the signing of Zach Aston-Reese to a one-year deal. The remaining candidates are James van Riemsdyk, Kevin Labanc, and Jack Johnson, each presenting unique possibilities for the franchise.

At 35, van Riemsdyk may become a trade target if the Blue Jackets' hopes for a Wild Card spot dim, attracting interest from multiple playoff contenders. Conversely, should the team stay competitive, he might delay extension talks until the offseason.

Labanc, who joined the Jackets after a professional tryout with the New Jersey Devils, has integrated well as a bottom-six forward and may be poised for an extension soon.

On the other hand, 38-year-old Jack Johnson is at the tail end of his career and could be traded regardless of the Blue Jackets' playoff status, potentially to a contending team like the Colorado Avalanche, to enhance his chances of winning the Stanley Cup.