The Blue Jackets have sent J-F Berube back to the AHL to make room for Korpisalo to serve as Elvis Merzlikins' backup vs. the Maple Leafs. Korpisalo, who has not played since January 31st, has gone 6-8-0 with an .887 SV% in 18 appearances (14 starts) this season.
Korpisalo's move to IR is retroactive to February 15th, which means he is eligible to come off whenever he's healthy. The move was made to create an open spot on the roster to activate Emil Bemstrom from the COVID-19 protocol list.
Korpisalo has cleared COVID-19 protocol and will make his first appearance since December 16th. Korpisalo has given up at least three goals in seven straight starts, going 3-3-0 with an .872 SV%. Tonight he'll face a Lightning team that is on a three-game losing skid but are in the top-half in the NHL in xGF/60 (2.83).
Korpisalo was in COVID-19 protocol and skated on his own on Thursday but joined the team on Friday and should be available for Saturday's game. It's unclear if he will start or backup Elvis Merzlikins.
Korpisalo missed five games with an illness but was activated from IR on Friday morning. He will most likely serve as Elvis Merzlikins' backup on Saturday.
Korpisalo was not available for Thursday's game in Dallas and will miss at least the next three games. Elvis Merzlikins and Dainll Tarasov will serve as the Blue Jackets' goaltending duo while Korpisalo is out.
Both Korpisalo and Elvis Merzlikins are dealing with non-COVID illnesses, so Daniil Tarasov has been recalled and is expected to start Thursday.
