https://www.powerballsite.com/Justin Kirkland is one of the feel-good stories of the early part of this NHL season.

The 28-year-old Winnipeg native was originally drafted by the Nashville Predators in the third round of the 2014 NHL Draft. He scored his first NHL goal for the 5-0-1 Flames earlier this season after spending several seasons in the minors.

Kirkland signed a one-year contract with the Flames and was declared off waivers before the season began. He will take center spot from Jonathan Huberdeau and Anthony Mantha when the Flames play the Carolina Hurricanes on Thursday.

Kirkland was involved in a serious car accident that threatened to jeopardize his hockey career with the Anaheim Ducks in January 2023. He was hospitalized for two days and suffered head trauma and facial injuries.

Now, a year and a half later, he's become a key contributor for a Calgary team that's exceeding expectations.

He spoke with TSN on Thursday.

TSN: Jonathan Hoover is playing tonight with Anthony Mantha. That's the news for today. How does it feel to know that you're going to be playing with some pretty aggressive players?

Kirkland: Yeah, it's exciting. It's a big opportunity for me. Of course, Hoover is one of the most elite offensive players in the league, so it's exciting. And obviously Manta has a huge opportunity. So I'm going to do my best to compliment those guys.

TSN: You were waived a few weeks ago. Now that you've taken on this role, can you tell us a little bit about what's been going on for you over the past few weeks?

Kirkland: I don't really know what to say. It all happened so fast, but I'm just riding the wave and enjoying every moment. There's a lot of excitement and buzz around it. I didn't think it would explode as much as it did, but it's been really great. Of course, the team is winning, and that's what's important. So I'm trying to help in any way I can. They've been fantastic and welcoming. We're just having fun.

TSN: How was it for your family? Are they experiencing this as much as you are?

Kirkland: Yeah, we're all going through this together right now, and it's really great. My parents are going to be at the game tonight because it's only been about three hours. It's been really great to go through this journey together. I've had so much support from my parents over the years, and I couldn't have asked for more for everyone to be involved.

TSN: You mentioned hype. Do you get more recognition on the streets of Calgary or on social media? Do you get more attention from fans off the rink?

Kirkland: I wouldn't say it on the street, but I've seen the love and support online and on social media and stuff, and it's been really cool. I've never experienced anything like it. You can definitely feel it and see it. So thank you to all the Flames fans.

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