Yan Kuznetsov made his NHL debut on Tuesday night.
After being a healthy scratch twice on the weekend, Kuznetsov skated in his first NHL game at the Scotiabank Saddledome on Tuesday in the Calgary Flames' 6-3 win over the Ottawa Senators.
Kuznetsov recorded two shots and was a -1 in 11:58 of ice time. Both his shots came on his first shift of the game early in the opening frame. Unfortunately, Ottawa's first goal bounced off Kuznetsov's leg and in.
Welcome to the NHL, Kuzy! pic.twitter.com/ri337b7ldb
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) January 10, 2024
The former Saint John Sea Dogs defenseman was called up to the Flames late last week but did not play in either of Calgary's games on the weekend. He was sent back down to the AHL but was quickly called back up ahead of Tuesday's contest.
"I'll just try to enjoy this day as much as I can."
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) January 9, 2024
Yan Kuznetsov on making his NHL debut tonight against the Senators. pic.twitter.com/IdxaGHAQfA
Kuznetsov is in his second pro season with the Flames' AHL affiliate, the Calgary Wranglers. The 21-year-old, who is known more for his defensive work than offensive contributions, has two goals and five assists in 31 AHL games this season.
Kuznetsov played in 25 games with the Sea Dogs during the 2021-22 season, recording two goals and 11 assists. He helped the team capture the Memorial Cup on home ice.
Former Sea Dogs defenseman Jeremie Poirier, also a member of the Wranglers, was likely high on the list of potential Flames callups this season but a skate laceration, which required surgery, has kept him out of game action since late October.
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