Calgary Flames defenseman Dougie Hamilton envisioned himself remaining a member of the Boston Bruins for his entire career.
"I always thought I was going to be a Bruin for life," Hamilton told reporters at his introductory news conference in Calgary on Friday. "(I) kind of had that vision that I would only wear one jersey in the NHL."
The Bruins traded Hamilton to the Flames for a trio of draft picks on the first night of the NHL Entry Draft. Four days later, the 22-year-old signed a six-year contract extension worth a reported $34.5 million.
Hamilton improved on his offensive production from the blue line in each of his three seasons, scoring 10 goals and adding 32 assists in 72 games in 2014-15. He was drafted ninth overall by Boston in 2011.
"I'm really thankful to (the Bruins) organization for the opportunity that I got in my first three years, the development I got and everything. It's a great organization."
Hamilton said he's embracing his new club and not focusing on the past.
"I'm excited now to move forward in a new journey in my life and excited to be back in Canada, and excited to be a Flame. You just move on, and things change (quickly) and I'm pretty happy where I am now."
- With h/t to Yahoo Sports
