Kylington poised to make season debut but Flames lose two players on waivers

Calgary Flames defenceman Oliver Kylington is on track to make his season debut Thursday night against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Head coach Ryan Huska said the Flames still had to activate Kylington from long-term injured reserve when he spoke to the media shortly after 1 p.m. ET/ 11 a.m. MT. About an hour later, the Flames lost two players on waivers — Adam Ruzicka, claimed by the Coyotes, and Nick DeSimone, claimed by the Devils — which opens a roster spot for Kylington.

Kylington last played in the NHL in May of 2022 and sat out the entire 2022-23 season to deal with his mental health. He began skating again in December and, after a conditioning stint in the AHL, rejoined the Flames for practice on Monday.

“I just tried to really approach it as any other day, but it was kind of hard,” said Kylington after his first practice on Monday.

“Yesterday I had a moment for myself. 

“At one point in time, I didn’t think I was going to be here.

“It was kind of emotional, but in a good way. I was excited to come here today and see everyone and just share the ice with everyone and play hockey again.”

At Thursday’s morning skate, Kylington skated alongside partner Jordan Oesterle on the third pair. Dennis Gilbert projects to be scratched.

Forward Walker Duehr was recalled from the AHL to fill Ruzicka’s roster spot.