He was traded less than two weeks ago, but former Edmonton Oilers forward Nail Yakupov is back in Alberta’s capital already, getting ready to face off against his old teammates for the first time.
“I’d like to get two points here in this building for sure,” Yakupov told reporters Wednesday about his first chance to play an NHL regular season hockey game at the Oilers’ new arena. “Can’t wait.”
The Russian forward was traded to the St. Louis Blues on Oct. 7 after several disappointing seasons in Alberta. Many felt the hockey player just never seemed to be a good fit with the Oilers and he wasn’t able to live up to the expectations carved out for him when he was selected first overall by the team in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.
READ MORE: Edmonton Oilers trade Nail Yakupov to St. Louis Blues
The Blues’ head coach is Ken Hitchcock, a man known for placing an emphasis on defence when he coaches – something Yakupov was never known for. However, Hitchcock says the Russian player is already fitting in on the team and that he hopes to get him more time on the power play soon.
“He’s a very unique player,” he said.” He’s a very different player from what we have in our lineup so there’s an energy level when he’s on the ice that’s good for us.”
While he’s still adjusting to life with the Blues, Yakupov says he’s already feeling comfortable.
“I haven’t been there for a long time, but I already feel really comfortable and players have been really good to me so I didn’t feel any pressure.”
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Hitchcock suggested Yakupov may have lost some of his swagger since he came into the NHL as a blue-chip prospect but that the team is working to bring it back.
“We are trying to get him back confidence with the puck.”
Yakupov’s most productive numbers in terms of goals came in his rookie year when he scored 17 times during the 2012-13 season. While the current season is just getting started, Yakupov has already scored a goal and an assist with his new team in the four games he’s played with them.
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While Yakupov appeared to be excited about his fresh start in St. Louis, he spoke fondly about his time in Edmonton.
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“I have some really good memories,” he said. “I met a lot of good people here and the fans on the streets were really nice.”
-With files from Quinn Phillips.
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