It was a quick turnaround for Oilers defenceman Eric Gryba.
Yesterday, the 6-foot-4 blueliner was placed on waivers for the purpose of reassignment to Edmonton's American Hockey League affiliate, the Bakersfield Condors.
Today, the Saskatoon, SK native was just as quickly recalled.
"It's been a whirlwind for him," said Oilers Head Coach Todd McLellan.
"Not so much [in regards to] the travel and the moving around - he hadn't left town yet because he still had to clear waivers - but an emotional whirlwind, which is hard on an individual. He's a veteran player that's been in the league for a number of years and that is a very high-end quality person to begin with. The emotional roller coaster that he's been through has been tough but he's handled it well."
Gryba was recalled after Oilers defenceman Brandon Davidson sustained an injury that forced him to leave the game last night against the Calgary Flames.
"Davy will be out for a while," said McLellan. "Upper body injury, not a head or concussion problem but an upper body injury. So he'll be out for a little while."
Though he's grateful for the opportunity to remain in Edmonton, Gryba said he is now just focused on the task ahead.
"I want to get back in the lineup and play with the team here," said Gryba. "I'm in a situation where I can be moved up and down a lot easier, but for now I'm recalled and hopefully get an opportunity to play."
Davidson out, Gryba returns
© Andy Devlin