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Kuzmenko has been enjoying life in Calgary since joining the Flames

Posted on by Neons

Andrei Kuzmenko is still adjusting to the Calgary Flames.

The 28-year-old was acquired two weeks ago in a massive deal that saw Elias Lindholm leave for the Vancouver Canucks.

Things have been going well for Kuzmenko on the ice as he has two goals in four games with the Fire. Even with a good start, he still feels he has to prove what he can do to his teammates and coaching staff.

“The first four games were good for me, but I hope it will be better,” Kuzmenko said. “My form is not good, but I work every day because I want to help this team.”

Away from the ice, he didn't have much time to settle into his new city, as his first four games with his new team came on the road. Despite only being in Calgary for a short time, she quickly noticed the difference in weather compared to Vancouver.

“Now I see (Calgary), I like it. Every day, it's very important, but minus,” a smiling Kuzmenko told reporters this afternoon. “It's good for me because Yakutsk, my hometown, is usually -50°C. Its record is -75°C”.

After a difficult second season with the Canucks, Kuzmenko seems happy to have a new opportunity, and the Flames are happy to have him. His infectious attitude seems to be killing the team as they have been playing much better hockey of late.

“He's a bubbly personality. He always has a smile on his face,” Flames coach Ryan Huska said. “We don't always know what he's talking about, but I think that makes him a very good person for our room. The guys love having him around and I think he's been a great fit for our group so far.”

Not only has Kuzmenko changed his mind since joining the Flames, but he's also helped Jonathan Huberdeau walk. The two played together in the front row alongside Yegor Sharangovic and showed great chemistry in the early stages.

“I thought they had some chemistry, they made some plays in the offensive zone,” Huska explained. “The important thing for this line is that they have to play with pace. They have to find that spot to allow them to play in the offensive zone, because once they're there, they can play. We saw in these games that they have the ability, all three of them can do something.”

Tomorrow will mark Kuzmenko's first appearance as a member of the Flames at the Scotiabank Saddledome, where he will look to impress the home crowd. Going up against the 31st-ranked San Jose Sharks is a good chance to continue their push for the playoffs, as they are currently three points behind the St. Louis Blues for the final spot. Puck drop for tomorrow's competition is set for 7:00 PM MT.

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