Dougie Hamilton never pictured himself in the fiery red of the Calgary Flames — but he’s sure happy to be wearing the jersey today.
The young defenceman was all smiles as he and free agent acquisition Michael Frolik were introduced to the media during Friday’s Flames press conference.
“It’s for me, a dream come true to play for a Canadian team and a great organization like this,” Hamilton said. “It’s really exciting.”
It just wasn’t exactly part of his original plan.
“Going through it, I think I always thought I was going to be a Bruin for life,” he said. “I kind of had that vision that I would only wear one jersey in the NHL.”
Of course, that all changed with a glance at the crest on his left shoulder.
“Right now with the Canadian flag on my shoulder … I’m really excited,” said the Toronto, ON native. “I’m excited to be back in Canada and I’m excited to be a Flame.”
Though joining the Flames isn’t a homecoming for Michael Frolik, the Czech forward shared a similar sentiment about joining the Flames.
He spoke about his versatility as a player, his decision to choose no. 67 — it’s one number below Jagr, he said — and his eagerness to prove himself in the lineup.
“I’m ready for it.”