What was your reaction to the trade?
I found out in the middle of the night. I didn’t think I was going to get traded so I was totally in shock. But I’m excited to join a new organization and see how I do there.
On playing with Jake Voracek:
I’m excited to see him. We played a couple seasons together… so mostly I’m excited about that. I already talked with him a little bit. That’s going to be fun, for sure.
How are you coming along with your knee?
We’re working on it pretty much every day here and trying to get better. It’s good, it’s just going to take a little while more to be able to skate. I’ve got to take it step-after-step right now.
On if he could play this season:
I’d definitely say if it’s a longer playoff run, there’s a possibility of me jumping in, but it’s up to coach what his plan’s going to be and how it’s going to feel. I can’t tell you really this far ahead.
When you heard the news, was it disappointing to go to a team lower in the standings, or are you looking at it as best for your career?
I don’t want to say I’m disappointed or anything. I see it as a different opportunity. Philadelphia wanted me to play for them, so I’m excited to be on a team that’s excited to have me. I’m looking forward to joining. I’ve heard a lot of great things about the organization and the team. I’m looking forward to it… it’s not as if I’m looking at the standings and I see one team here and one team there. I see opportunity and I’m looking forward to playing hockey.
On his knee injury:
We played against Toronto and I went into the boards in a weird way. We weren’t sure if I did something bad or if it was just a bruise or something. So we took an MRI and found out I was going to need surgery. Instead of three weeks, the doctor decided on [one of] two different surgeries that were going to help me in the long run. He said it was going to be better for my career. So we decided to do it this way, and if it’s healthy I’ll be happy to have it 100 percent back.
Are you a stay at home, clear things out type of player?
Yeah. I can play where the coach wants to put me. I don’t want to say I’m just a stay-at-home defenseman. That’s my main thing, but I think I can produce chances also. It’s really up to where the coach wants to put me. I’ll be glad to take any role on the team.
On his stickwork:
Yeah. I think that’s one of the main things that I’ve been working on it since I got to the minors. I think that was the biggest thing that was holding me up from the NHL. I’m glad it worked out. There’s other parts of the game I have to get better at, so there’s lots of work ahead for me.
