It's "only game," but Ilya Bryzgalov is looking to play it professionally again.
“I feel the passion inside and the fire in my eyes. I want to face new challenges and I want the chance to play in the best league," the eccentric goaltender told Chris Lomon of the NHLPA.
“When I told my son I was looking to play in the NHL again, his eyes lit up," Bryzgalov said. “He was so excited. Now he’s older and he understands the game more. It would be great if he could watch me play again, maybe to learn some things that can help him.”
The 35-year-old netminder last played with the Anaheim Ducks in 2014-15, posting a 4.19 GAA and .847 save percentage in eight games.
Bryzgalov yearned to return after watching the 2016 postseason unfold.
"I watched a lot of hockey, but when it came to the playoffs, that’s when it really hit me,” offered Bryzgalov. “I realized I really needed to feel that excitement again, the rush of playing, the challenge of trying to stop the most talented players in the world. I was really missing all of that. The more I watched, the more passion I had inside of me."
His time away from the game allowed him to recharge and spend quality time with his family.
“I was able to rest, both spiritually and mentally, and I also had the opportunity to spend time helping my wife and spend time with our kids,” he continued. “So, it was nice to have that year to recharge the batteries. Right now, I feel amazing. I feel great. I kept myself in shape and worked out a lot.”
Bryzgalov's agent believes his client is ready to return to the form he displayed playing nine playoff games for the Minnesota Wild in 2014.
"Having worked with (Hall of Fame goalie) Dominik Hasek on his return after a year off and knowing the training Ilya has in place for the summer, there is no doubt in my mind he will perform at the level he did leading the Wild to the playoffs two years ago,” Rich Winter said.
“With Ilya prepared to play for a modest salary and take most of his compensation in bonuses, this will be a unique opportunity for a team looking for an experienced goaltender to challenge for a starting job.”
Whether the aging netminder is still capable of contributing in the crease is one thing, but the NHL could certainly benefit from having his personality back.
