“I’m just trying to enjoy every minute of it,” Mikael Backlund said.
Backlund was drafted by the Calgary Flames in the first round, 24th overall in the 2007 NHL draft.
Things didn’t always go smoothly for the now-35-year-old captain of the Flames.
In fact, early in his career, he contemplated going to Switzerland to play hockey.
But he stuck with it and on Tuesday night in Salt Lake City, Utah, Backlund will suit up for his 1,000th NHL game, and he’s been taking it all in.
“Today, I’m just super excited the day is here and I’m just trying to enjoy every minute of it,” he said.
“I’ve done these a million times, but it’s still super exciting for me to come in for morning skate and to talk to you guys (media).
“Of course, I’m going to be 100 per cent focused when the puck drops and focus on …