The 26 year old Russian defenseman stood at a podium in the CBJ locker room and answered questions from the media
Ivan Provorov was introduced to the media on Wednesday in Columbus. He was traded from the Philadelphia Flyers to the Blue Jackets on June 11th. Today, he made his first introduction in the Blue Jacket locker room.
Provorov got into Columbus last night and said he “wanted to stop by the rink, and meet everybody”, which included the General Manager, John Davidson, the staff, and trainers. He also added that he wanted to the see the locker room, and “where was going to be home for the next couple years”.
Provorov was asked by reporters how he got the news that he had been traded. He went on to say, “we were in Oahu, and we were about to fly to Maui, and I got a text from my agent, that Columbus might be a possibility, about an hour later I got a call that said, I was traded to Columbus”, Provorov said.
Provorov stated that the first call he got was from Daniel Briere, the Flyers General Manager. He then talked to CBJ GM Jarmo Kekalainen who said they were happy to have him.
"I was excited to join Columbus and be a part of this team and the organization, but I still had five and a half days left on vacation," Provorov joked. He also said he was also eager to come here (Columbus) and see everything.
Provorov says he had “a feeling” when reporters asked if he felt his time in Philadelphia was coming to an end. Says once it happened, he was excited. He also said he was excited about the players, and the opportunity to win games in Columbus.
Provorov describes his game as a 2-way game and can contribute offensively and defensively but knows he must defend his own end first and foremost. His stat line for his career is 65-152-217, and has missed only three games his entire career, something the CBJ will appreciate.
On the blue line, he will be a welcome addition, with both his play and his ability to stay healthy. He’s expected to play on the 2nd pair, but knowing how fluid lines are during the season, he’ll most likely play with several different players.
Provorov will wear #9 for the Blue Jackets.