Brian Rafalski on ECHL contract: 'I wouldn't call it a comeback right now'

Defenseman Brian Rafalski is set to make his debut with the ECHL's Florida Everblades on Friday, and, prior to his first professional hockey game in two and a half years, he admits "there'll be some dust that has to be shaken off."

Speaking to Sean Leahy of Yahoo's Puck Daddy blog, Rafalski also said he's not rushing any decisions in terms of attempting to climb back to the NHL.

I wouldn't call it a comeback right now. It's just that God put it in my heart early/mid December to start skating again. I've said a constant prayer over that time, [while] at the same time getting back in shape and skating a little bit. Worse case, I get back in shape again. As far as anything else goes, we'll see where it leads.

At this point, [I'm] just taking it a day at a time, letting the Lord lead me.

Interestingly enough, and as evidenced by the spiritual language invoked, Rafalski has served as the Everblades' team chaplain for the past two years (as per NHL.com).

Wherever this path leads him, it all starts afresh Friday against the South Carolina Stingrays.