Saturday, January 26, 2013
Cervenka's timeline (update)
By Victoria Matiash/Luke Lapinski
UPDATE: The Calgary Herald confirms Calgary Flames forward Roman Cervenka will make his NHL debut on Saturday against the Edmonton Oilers.
Cervenka is pegged to skate on a line with Jiri Hudler and Matt Stajan.
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UPDATE: According to the Calgary Herald, Roman Cervenka has been cleared to return to practice Thursday; the 27-year-old forward could be included in the Calgary Flames' lineup as early as Saturday against the Edmonton Oilers.
The Flames will likely have a couple of on-ice personnel decisions to make, as Jiri Hudler (personal) is also expected back on the weekend.
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The Calgary Flames have a few new weapons they're hoping to utilize up front this season. One is highly touted rookie Sven Baertschi. Another is former KHL standout Roman Cervenka.
Unfortunately for both the Flames and Cervenka, his debut is being delayed. He's dealing with a blood clot in his leg and a return date is uncertain. The picture could become a little clearer after a hematology appointment on Monday though, and then he and the club can plan accordingly from there. The 27-year old forward was routinely near the top of the KHL in scoring, breaking the 30-goal barrier twice in the last four seasons and coming close a third time. If he can effectively adapt his game to suit the North American style of play, he could be a very welcome addition to a Calgary franchise trying to make its first trip back to the postseason since 2009.
