Samuel Honzek Returns to Flames Camp With a Clean Slate

For Samuel Honzek, training camp represents more than the start of another season.

It is a chance to finally put the frustration of last season behind him.

The Calgary Flames forward enters camp healthy and confident after missing nearly 10 months because of injury. Honzek suffered the injury in a collision with captain Mikael Backlund on Nov. 15, ending his season and keeping him out of the Olympics.

Now, after a lengthy rehabilitation process and a full summer of training, Honzek says he is ready to get back to playing hockey.

“I would say I’m excited to get back and pick up where I left off and be even better,” Honzek told reporters. “I had a great summer, the injury has already happened, I feel 100 per cent so I’m ready to go.”

That last part is important.

Honzek was able to train without limitations and prepare for the season properly. The only question now is how quickly he can get back into game shape.

“It’s been a while since I’ve played games,” Honzek admitted. “Always the first game (of the) preseason is going to be exciting… I have nothing to lose, I think, and I did everything right, so now to just come out and be the best version of myself.”

Before the injury, Honzek had begun finding a role alongside Backlund. The combination gave the young forward an opportunity to contribute in a shutdown role while learning from one of the Flames’ most experienced players.

But there won’t be any guarantees waiting for him when the preseason begins.

Honzek knows that.

The 2023 first-round pick is competing for a regular spot in Calgary’s lineup, and he understands that his previous draft status or past opportunities won’t earn him anything this time around.

“Nothing is gifted, I have to earn everything, I think that’s the right mindset.”

That mindset could be particularly important for Honzek this season. The next step is simply getting back on the ice and proving himself.