Jackets' top pick sidelined six months

Columbus, OH – Columbus Blue Jackets prospect Ryan Murray is expected to be sidelined for six months because of a shoulder injury that will require surgery.

Murray, the second overall pick in the 2012 draft, was hurt earlier this month while playing for his junior team in the Western Hockey League. He had two goals and 15 assists for 17 points in 23 games with Everett this season.

The 19-year-old Saskatchewan native, who signed an entry-level contract with the Blue Jackets in July, has 22 goals and 99 assists for 121 points in 191 WHL games.

Murray is expected to undergo surgery in the next two to three weeks.