Glendale, AZ (SportsNetwork.com) - Nathan Horton will make his long-awaited Blue Jackets debut when Columbus takes on Phoenix later Thursday.
The Jackets made the biggest splash in the early stages of free agency back in July, agreeing to terms with unrestricted free-agent Horton on a seven-year contract.
Shortly after the signing, Horton had to undergo surgery his left shoulder, which was injured during the Boston Bruins' unsuccessful Stanley Cup bid, a procedure whose recovery time was 4-to-6 months.
Horton, who spent the last three seasons with the Bruins, posted 13 goals and 22 points in 43 regular-season games, then contributed 19 points (7G, 12A) in 22 playoff appearances this past season.
The 28-year-old Ontario native has collected 198 goals and 402 points in 591 games along with a plus-57 rating with the Panthers and Bruins.
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