"Alexandre Texier reached out to let us know that he was ready to get back on the ice and asked our permission to participate in the World Championships," said Kekalainen. "We were very happy to hear that he is doing well physically and mentally and ready to take this next step in his journey. We are excited that he will be representing France at the World Championships and look forward to his return to the Blue Jackets next season."
Texier, 22, posted 11 goals and nine assists for 20 points with 12 penalty minutes in 36 contests in 2021-22. He set career highs in goals and points despite missing the final 42 games of the campaign due to a fractured finger and a personal leave of absence. The Grenoble, France native has totaled 22-27-49 with 44 penalty minutes in 123 career games since being selected by the Blue Jackets in the second round, 45th overall, at the 2017 NHL Draft
The 6-1, 186-pound forward has suited up for France in various international competition, including the 2018 and 2019 IIHF World Championships. He also skated for the country at the 2017 (bronze medal) and 2018 IIHF World Junior Division 1A Championships.
