Heading into last off-season, many expected Oliver Kylington to re-sign with the Calgary Flames. The talented defenseman, known for his smooth skating, had returned to the team after a season and a half away to focus on his mental health. He had expressed a clear desire to remain with the Flames, saying, “I think everyone knows that I want to be a part of this team and this organization.” Despite his intentions, no deal was reached, and Kylington eventually entered free agency. After five weeks, he signed with the Colorado Avalanche.
Kylington’s departure marked a bittersweet end to his time with the Flames, the team that selected him in the second round of the 2015 NHL Draft. His journey in Calgary had been a mix of promise and personal struggles, but his decision to take a break for mental health reasons earned him respect and understanding from both teammates and fans. That respect remains, despite his eventual departure.
Now with the Avalanche, Kylington is set to face the Flames for the first time. It remains uncertain whether he will be in the lineup for Thursday’s game, but the possibility of his return adds an intriguing subplot to the matchup. His time in Denver hasn’t been entirely smooth, as he has only played eight games due to a lower-body injury that has kept him sidelined for the past 31 games. However, with Josh Manson’s injury during the Avalanche’s recent game against the Vancouver Canucks, Kylington could be called upon to make his return against his former team.
How the Flames’ fans will react to his return is still to be seen. Kylington’s tenure in Calgary ended on a disappointing note, but his openness about his mental health struggles and the positive impact he had on the team during his time there should prevent any lasting bitterness. His dedication to his own well-being and his willingness to return to the ice after a challenging period for personal reasons has only added to his character, and Flames fans will likely acknowledge that when he takes the ice as an opponent.
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