When David Clarkson signed his 7 year/$36.75 M dollar deal with the Maple Leafs, the last thing he envisioned was a 10 game suspension.
Now he has paid the price for jumping the board to come to Phil Kessel’s defence against Buffalo’s John Scott, and Clarkson can finally re-join his teammates Friday in Columbus.
“I’ve watched enough and I’m ready to get back at it,” said David Clarkson after an off-ice workout on Thursday. “My wife is probably ready to get me out of the house and back to the rink.”
Clarkson was suspended for 10- games for jumping the boards against the Buffalo Sabres in an exhibition game, coming to the defence of Phil Kessel.
To this day, the Leafs forward doesn’t regret what he did.
“Different situations call for different measures. I’ve been a part of things that have gone a different way,” said Clarkson. “ I think you learn things. I made a decision with my heart and my sleeve and try to play that way.”
“It felt long, but when the team is winning it makes it feel shorter. I’m excited for Friday night.”
While Clarkson watched from the press box the Leafs managed to go 7 and 3, which made the time away easier for the 29 year old. The Leafs major free-agent acquisition has worked hard with skating coach Barb Underhill over the last few weeks in the hopes of being sharp and ready in his first game.
“I’ve been working out and skating twice a day. I’m coming in like I would any other day. I’m not going to take it easy. I will play the same way I have my whole career.”
“He’s been nothing but positive,” said defenceman Jake Gardiner. “He’s been talking to guys, giving tips, working hard at practice. He’s chomping at the bit to get back.”
“He’s a veteran guy,” said Jay McClement. “ It will be a big boost for us.”
Clarkson said it will be an “honour” to play a regular season game for the Leafs. But he knows he must keep his emotions in check.
“It’s easy when you have been suspended to over- do things,” said the Toronto area native. “I’ve just got to come in and take things step by step.”
And his first step takes place Friday in Columbus.
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