After a brief retirement, Zack Kassian is resuming his professional hockey career.
Former Buffalo Sabres forward Zack Kassian has signed a contract with HC Sparta Praha of the Czech Extraliga. With this news, the gritty winger is putting an end to his brief retirement.
Kassian, 33, announced his retirement back in October after he failed to land a contract from the Anaheim Ducks following his PTO. After stepping away from the game for a bit, he will now be continuing his career overseas.
Kassian began his professional career with the Sabres, as the club selected him with the 13th overall pick of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. His stint with the club was brief, however. In 27 games with the Sabres during his rookie season in 2011-12, he had three goals and four assists. Later on that season, he and Marc-Andre Gragnani were dealt to the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for Cody Hodgson and Alexander Sulzer.
Kassian went on to have a successful NHL career as a bottom-six forward due to his immense physicality, toughness, and ability to chip in offensively. In 661 career NHL games split between the Sabres, Canucks, Edmonton Oilers, and Arizona Coyotes, he had 92 goals, 111 assists, and 203 points.
Here's to hoping Kassian has a great season overseas from here.
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