Ilya Bryzgalov is planning to make an NHL comeback.
The 35-year-old last appeared in the league in a poor eight-game stint with the Anaheim Ducks, but Bryzgalov in true-Bryzgalovian fashion told NHLPA.com he was able to “rest, both spiritually and mentally” and that his passion for the sport has returned.
“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,” he said.
“I watched a lot of hockey, but when it came to the playoffs, that’s when it really hit me. 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.
Bryzgalov’s performance over the past few seasons hasn’t been great, aside from a small playoff run with the Minnesota Wild in 2013-14. He’s bounced around from multiple organizations while posting pedestrian numbers. But, a Bryzgalov return would be great for one reason – he’s got a humongous big personality.
Watch the best moments of the Russian netminder below – he’s awesome.
Despite the shoddy recent numbers, Bryzgalov was excellent at the NHL level previously, specifically his 2007-2011 run with the Phoenix Coyotes where he was one of the most dependable goalies in the league.
Will Bryzgalov ever be a starter at the NHL level again? That’s very unlikely. He doesn’t need that kind of pressure or expectations. But, as a backup goalie? He’s worth a shot. A team should be open to extending him a professional tryout or a make-good contract and see if Bryzgalov can provide them with a veteran backup and a great locker room personality.
The league needs more Bryz.
