Wait is almost over for Hilsendager
James Hilsendager is right on schedule.
The rookie defenceman is poised to return after missing the Regina Pats’ last 16 games with a separated shoulder. The original prognosis suggested he would miss at least six weeks after being hurt on Dec. 12.
“Friday is my sixth week,” noted Hilsendager, who’s hoping to be in the lineup that night against the visiting Moose Jaw Warriors. “It’s hard to watch (your team play). You want to be out there so bad. But I’ve learned a lot by watching from the stands. It’s going to help me in the long run.”
Hilsendager played 29 games before the injury, recording one goal and one assist with a plus-six rating. He adds a steady stay-athome presence for the Pats, who’ve utilized him on their third defensive pairing, as well as the penalty kill.
Despite a lengthy absence, Hilsendager has been practising since last week and believes it won’t take long to get back up to speed.
“I was pretty nervous the first skate but after taking a couple hits it wasn’t too bad,” he said. “Hopefully (it only takes) a couple games max. Our practices are pretty high tempo. They’re pretty game-like so hopefully it’ll be (quick).”
The Pats have weathered a recent string of injuries on the back end, with Colby Williams and Chase Harrison also missing significant time (seven games apiece). Hilsendager has been out the longest and he’s itching to be part of the team’s playoff drive.
“Coming in after a win, you’re excited for the boys but you wish you could be out there,” he said. “When we’re losing I wish I could be out there, blocking a shot or doing what I could. It’s a little more of a relief that they’re doing fine without me but I’d also like to be a part of that. “I can’t wait.” The Pats were a different team the last time Hilsendager was in the lineup. Since then, the club has traded five players (Kyle Burroughs, Morgan Klimchuk, Dryden Hunt, Connor Gay and Brady Reagan) while welcoming three new faces (Connor Hobbs, Jesse Gabrielle and Taylor Cooper).
The team’s chemistry is still a work in progress but Hilsendager isn’t concerned.
“We just have to keep building and getting better and developing as players,” he added. “We’re such a young team now. We’re all counted on a lot more. I think the coaches trust in us a lot and they’re ready to put us out there in any role and any situation. It’s a good feeling.
“I just have to get back in the swing of things.”
“IT’S HARD TO WATCH (YOUR TEAM PLAY). YOU WANT TO BE OUT THERE SO BAD.” JAMES HILSENDAGER