Former Calgary Flames defenceman Oliver Kylington lands new NHL contract

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Josh Tupper
August 5, 2024 (4:44 PM)

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Oliver Kylington has found a new home with the Colorado Avalanche, signing a one-year contract worth $1.05 million USD.

The deal comes just over a month after leaving the Calgary Flames as an unrestricted free agent. The announcement was made on social media on Monday afternoon, marking a fresh start for the Stockholm, Sweden native.

"The Colorado Avalanche Hockey Club announced today that the organization has signed defenseman Oliver Kylington (pronounced CHIH-lihng-tuhn) to a one-year contract for the upcoming 2024-25 season,"

the Avalanche stated in a press release on their website.

Kylington, 27, was drafted by the Calgary Flames in the second round, 60th overall, of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft and has spent his entire career with the organization until now. Throughout his career, he has shown flashes of skill and potential but has also faced challenges, particularly regarding his mental health.

Kylington was candid about his struggles with mental health, which led him to sit out the entire 2022-23 season to focus on his well-being. He has spoken openly about the importance of addressing mental health issues, acknowledging that he had previously suppressed his feelings and neglected his emotional well-being. In an interview, Kylington shared that taking a step back from hockey allowed him to prioritize his mental health and return to the game with renewed focus and energy.

During the 2021-22 season, his last active year with the Flames, Kylington played in 33 games, recording eight points (three goals and five assists), 12 penalty minutes, and a minus-six rating. Despite these challenges, his potential remains evident, and the Avalanche see value in adding him to their defensive lineup.

The move to Colorado presents a new opportunity for Kylington to re-establish himself in the NHL and contribute to a team with championship aspirations. The Avalanche, known for their competitive roster and strong organizational culture, provide an environment that could be conducive to Kylington's personal and professional growth.

Kylington's addition to the Avalanche brings depth and versatility to their defense, offering a blend of skill and experience. The team is hopeful that he can regain his form and become a valuable asset on the blue line, contributing both offensively and defensively.

For the Avalanche, signing Kylington aligns with their strategy of bolstering their roster with skilled players who can make an impact. As they gear up for the upcoming 2024-25 season, Kylington's presence could play a key role in their pursuit of success.

Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how Kylington integrates into the Avalanche lineup and how he performs in the upcoming season. His journey from addressing mental health challenges to returning to the ice serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness in professional sports.