After struggling with mental health issues over the last year and a half, Oliver Kylington can finally return to the Calgary Flames fold.
The defender missed the entire 2022-2023 season for personal reasons, his last game coming in the playoffs of the previous season at the end of May 2022.
Kylington was deemed ineligible to participate in the Flames' training camp in September after failing the team's medical tests. The organization did not give a deadline for the 26-year-old's possible return.
On Thursday, he was sent to the Calgary Wranglers of the American Hockey League to get back in shape. He also skated with the Flames on December 1st.
“I feel like my mental health is in good shape and I'm ready to take another step forward. Returning to Calgary was the right decision. I have felt great support from the Flames ownership, staff and my teammates and am grateful for the support and resources made available to me,” Kylington said in a press release.
“I can’t wait to get back on the ice in a team environment and get back into my routine. I really missed it,” he added.
“As an organization, we care most about Oliver as a person,” continued general manager Craig Conroy. We are delighted that he has made great progress with his mental wellbeing and will continue to support Oliver in this process.”
Kylington was used less early in his career and exploded in 2021/22 with personal highs of 73 games, nine goals and 31 points. He also maintained an excellent differential of +34.