Kolanos will play on line with Cammalleri, Jones
Cammalleri, Jones are linemates as club faces Hawks
While wearing a white practice smock Thursday morning, Krys Kolanos got to enjoy the on-ice company of the similarly attired Michael Cammalleri and Blair Jones.
That development was meaningful.
Because it swiftly scrubbed any doubts about Kolanos’s level of participation tonight against the Chicago Blackhawks.
He will not be eased into the Calgary Flames’ lineup. There is simply no time for that. “Nope, you saw what line he’s playing on,” coach Brent Sutter, referring to the latest configuration of the second unit, told media members. “We’re going to throw him in there. With our situation . . . it’s a great opportunity for him, a great opportunity for ourselves to see where he’s at.
“You know what? It’s great. He’s obviously very excited about it. And we’re excited about it.”
For an offensively challenged outfit such as the Flames, Kolanos may provide a welcome spark.
In 34 contests with the Abbotsford Heat, the big centreman did stack up 40 points. But he was making no promises about his stay in Calgary.
“I’m going to try to bring balance to my game — whatever happens, happens,” said Kolanos, grinning. “I’m not going to say that I’m going to do this or that. I’m just going to prepare and try to be as ready as possible — and just let it happen.” Kolanos’s tale is a dandy. First-round draft pick. Tall talent laid low by injury. Shuffled around league. Cannot find a hockey home. Steps away from the game. Endures hip operation. Embraces arduous comeback. Earns NHL contract.
Returns tonight, in his home town, wearing the sweater of his childhood heroes.
“Very exciting, but obviously I wasn’t doing it for the story,” said the 30-year-old, engulfed by reporters following Thursday’s practice. “Definitely my career was sidetracked with quite a few injuries. The most important thing is, I stayed with it and persevered and just kept pushing. I know I can make a difference and be an impact player. I still believe in it all. It’s been quite a journey. I’m just embracing every moment of it right now.
“I grew up being a Flames fan, watching them win a Cup when I was eight years old. It feels really right, right now. I’m not sure I can put it into words. But I think we can all envision how exciting, how ecstatic, it is to get the chance (tonight).”
Meaning he’ll be keenly aware of his surroundings. Big-league barn, with appreciative friends and family in the pews. (Except for younger brother Mark, who’s currently playing overseas for the Dundee Stars.)
“It might be a little emotional at some points,” said Kolanos. “Everything happens really fast and — boom — we’re going to play (tonight). That’s probably the best way — get into it right away. I’m super grateful and thankful and feel very blessed for it.
“It’s been very emotional for me. Just another step. I feel like I’m a third of the way to where I want to be. This isn’t the pinnacle. Now the real work starts.”
But, already, he’s turned some heads. Maybe even changed some minds.
“I know sometimes you get labelled,” said Kolanos. “But that stuff I never really thought about. I just knew that if I stuck to it — trusted myself and my game — that I could get to where I want to be.”
Consider Alex Tanguay a fan of his. The Flames left-winger can appreciate the dedication.
“It’s a very good example for everybody watching out there,” said Tanguay. “I remember playing against him in his younger days in Phoenix. He’s really skilled, he’s got size and, from what I’ve heard, he’s been doing well in the American Hockey League. It’s a good story and, hopefully, he’ll help us accomplish our goal.’’
Kolanos’s last NHL appearance was March 31, 2009 — he skated 11 shifts, on behalf of the Minnesota Wild, during a 2-1 overtime loss to the Vancouver Canucks.
“It’s been a 22-month comeback from that hip surgery I had,” said Kolanos. “I’m very hungry. I’ve got to keep climbing and keep working. My health has never been better — touch wood — so I feel like I’m finally finding my stride. I still feel young, like I’ve got a few really good prime years ahead of me.
“Hopefully, I’m just getting started.”