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"A big, strong guy": Leafs' Morgan Rielly reflects on facing former teammate Nikolay Kulemin during preseason clash
Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly shared his thoughts on facing former teammate Nikolay Kulemin. Kulemin, who signed a professional tryout agreement with the Ottawa Senators, is trying to make an NHL comeback.
The Ottawa Senators will face the Toronto Maple Leafs on Sunday, with an opportunity for the former teammates to faceoff.
Rielly spoke about Kulemin’s influence when they played together in Toronto. NHL insider David Alter posted Rielly’s comments on X:
"When he was here, he was a great player," Riley said. "Just the ultimate 200-foot forward and worker and a big, strong guy. I remember being young and him having that kind of imposing type of stature. So good for him. I wish him nothing but the best."
The two were teammates when Rielly was starting his career. Rielly remembered Kulemin as a hardworking, physical player. This preseason offers Kulemin a chance to return to the NHL, though his path won’t be easy.
Kulemin, now 38, last played in North America during the 2017-18 season. Since then, he played in Russia’s top hockey league, the KHL. During the 2023-24 season, Kulemin had 13 goals and 25 points in 46 games with Ufa Salavat Yulayev.
Kulemin had a 30-goal season with the Maple Leafs in 2010-11. But as he approaches 40, he’s unlikely to play a big role. If he makes Ottawa’s roster, it will likely be as a bottom-six forward.
Kulemin was drafted 44th overall by the Maple Leafs in the 2006 NHL Draft and spent 10 NHL seasons between Toronto and the New York Islanders. In 669 games, he scored 121 goals and collected 153 assists.
Nikolay Kulemin and Morgan Rielly will suit up to aid their captains
Both teams are quite experienced on offense. Nikolay Kulemin will suit up for Brady Tkachuk's camp. He was the points leader for the Senators last year with 74 and scored 37 goals. Toronto has a new captain, Auston Matthews, who replaced John Tavares. He led the Maple Leafs' offense with 107 points and 69 goals last season.
Nikolay Kulemin’s return should bring back memories for Maple Leafs fans. Whether he makes the Senators’ roster or not, his effort to return is noteworthy.
In addition to Kulemin, the Senators also signed defenseman Calen Addison to a PTO. Addison is competing for a spot after playing for both the Minnesota Wild and San Jose Sharks last season.
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