Blue Jackets' Elvis Merzlikins Reassures Fans After Olympics Removal

Latvian goaltender says he agreed with decision to pull him from loss to Team USA

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender Elvis Merzlikins was removed from Latvia's Olympic matchup against the United States in the third period, raising concerns among Blue Jackets fans about his health. However, Merzlikins has since reassured fans that the change was made to try to shift the momentum of the game, and that he fully supported the decision.

Why it matters

The Blue Jackets have been surging in the NHL standings lately, and they'll need a healthy and sharp Merzlikins to continue their push for a playoff spot when the league resumes after the Olympics break. Any injury concerns about their starting goaltender would be a major setback for the team.

The details

Merzlikins allowed four goals on 32 shots against Team USA, but two successful challenges took two of those goals off the board. Latvia ended up losing the game 5-1. Merzlikins said he agreed with the decision to pull him from the game, as it was an attempt to change the energy and momentum. Blue Jackets fans can rest assured that the removal was not due to any injury concerns.

  • On February 13, 2026, Merzlikins was pulled from Latvia's Olympic game against Team USA in the third period.

The players

Elvis Merzlikins

A 31-year-old Latvian goaltender who plays for the Columbus Blue Jackets in the NHL.

Rick Bowness

The recently appointed head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets, who has helped spark the team's recent resurgence in the NHL standings.

Jet Greaves

A young goaltender who plays for the Columbus Blue Jackets.

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What they’re saying

“He said himself it was to change the energy and he agreed. So nothing to be worried about Blue Jackets fans.”

— Dan Rosen, NHL.com reporter (NHL.com)

What’s next

Latvia will trust Merzlikins to bounce back when they face Germany on Saturday in their next Olympic matchup. When the NHL season resumes after the Olympics, the Blue Jackets will be hoping Merzlikins is healthy and in top form to help them maintain their push for a playoff spot.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of clear communication between players and coaches, as well as the need for Blue Jackets fans to trust that the team has their goaltender's best interests in mind. Merzlikins' reassurance should help alleviate any concerns about his health and ability to lead the Blue Jackets down the stretch.