The Edmonton Oilers received a belated Christmas gift of sorts on Friday, with a positive injury update. As reported by Bakersfield Condors' broadcaster Ryan Holt on social media, James Hamblin is set to return from injury.
Hamblin has been out for more than two months, resulting in missing 20 games for the Condors. Prior to his injury he had made six appearances in the AHL this season, in the process producing two points (both assist) and a -2 rating.
As noted by Holt, the return of the 25-year-old now means the Condors have their preferred centre lineup for the first time since late October. The other three centres in question are Lane Pederson, Noah Philp and Jayden Grubbe.
Local boy turned good
Hamblin is one of those feel-good stories and the type of guy a fan roots for, going from being undrafted to signing with his hometown team. After proving himself in Bakersfield, he made his NHL debut during the 202-23 campaign and went on to make 10 total appearances during that season.
Last season saw the Edmonton native make another 31 appearances for the Oilers, scoring two goals, adding one assist and producing a +3 rating. He also had 21 blocks, 14 hits and seven takeaways, while averaging 7:55 of ice time.
Undoubtedly the highlight for Hamblin last season -- and likely his hockey career as a whole to date -- was when he scored his first NHL goal, against the Tampa Bay Lightning in a 6-4 loss. It was an extremely emotional moment for the young man, as he looked upwards and thanked his mom.
Hamblin's mother had passed away from cancer back in September of 2017, providing him with the motivation to give it his all and never quit. It truly is special just how much the love of a family member can inspire someone, even in (or maybe because of) the most tragic of circumstances.
When the left-shot forward next gets another chance with the Oilers remains to be seen, considering all of the other options they currently have. However, you know he will continue to work hard and show what he can for the organisation, with the memory of his mom helping him to persevere.