New Blue Jackets acquisition Horton has shoulder surgery

Columbus, OH – Columbus Blue Jackets prized free-agency acquisition Nathan Horton underwent successful shoulder surgery on Wednesday.

The procedure was performed at Massachusetts General Hospital by Dr. Jon Warner. Though no recovery timetable was disclosed, an earlier report from the Dispatch stated that Horton will need 4-to-6 months to heal.

"Nathan's surgery went very well and he is expected to make a full recovery after completing his rehabilitation program," said Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen. "Since Nathan joined the Blue Jackets, our medical team from OhioHealth and team training staff have worked closely with Dr. Warner and will be actively engaged with Nathan throughout the rehabilitation process."

The 28-year-old right wing signed a seven-year deal on July 5 worth a reported $37.1 million.

Horton, a former Bruin, left Game 1 of the 2013 Stanley Cup Finals and did not return after tangling with Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Niklas Hjalmarsson in front of the Chicago net.

Horton reportedly suffered a left shoulder subluxation on April 20 fighting with Jarome Iginla, who signed with Boston last Friday after finishing last season with Pittsburgh. The injury caused Horton's shoulder to pop out of place at points throughout the playoffs.

Last season, Horton posted 13 goals and nine assists in 43 games. In his nine- year career with the Florida Panthers and Bruins, the 2003 third-overall pick has 198 goals and 402 points in 591 games.

Horton helped lead Boston to the 2011 Stanley Cup and put up 15 goals and 36 points over 43 career playoff games.