COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Columbus Blue Jackets center Max Domi is expected to miss the beginning of the 2021-22 season after surgery to repair a labral tear in his right shoulder.

Domi is expected to make a full recovery in five to six months, Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen said Friday.

“Max had been experiencing some discomfort in his shoulder, which he brought to our attention last week and a subsequent examination revealed a labral tear,” Kekalainen said. “It was determined that surgery was the best course of action, and we look forward to Max’s return early next season.”

The surgery happened Thursday.

Domi's absence could be significant, considering that the Blue Jackets already are deficient at the center position. The development is further motivation for the team to seek help through trades or free agency in the offseason.

The 26-year-old Domi was acquired in an October trade from the Montreal Canadiens. He had nine goals and 15 assists with a team-leading 75 penalty minutes in 54 games with the Blue Jackets last season. He had four goals and eight assists, including three multi-point efforts, in his last 17 games.

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The Associated Press