Photo Credit: Zack Hill
It’s never easy to get sent back to the AHL, and become an afterthought in the Flyers organization. However, Nicolas Aube-Kubel (NAK) has made the most of his journey throughout the sport of hockey, and has become a mainstay in the NHL for this young Flyers team, “For sure it was disappointing to get sent back,” NAK said, “I came to camp thinking I would have a spot especially in Europe for the first game. I knew the gift the NHL has given me. I knew I would make an impact, you know what though it really motivated me.”
NAK has earned his spot within the Flyers lineup. Alain Vigneault wants him to play in the top six, no problem, Vigneault wants him to play in the bottom 12, no problem. NAK works his butt off consistently, and his engine never stops. He provides energy, he’s physical, and can forecheck with the best of them.
The well versed NAK does everything the coaching staff asks of him, and does it well. Vigneault wants him to finish his checks, no problem. NAK is versatile, and can play anywhere throughout the Flyers lineup, “It was a big adjustment from the AHL to the NHL,” NAK said, “I fought through the rookie wall (Laughing), and I want to put up points to help the team out. I don’t want to look back.”
NAK continues, “It’s my first time with an NHL team doing that, and it’s very motivating. Helping the guys get into the playoffs, and we have a good group to compete.”
What people are finding out is that NAK has made the most of this recall, and has proven that he is a solid bottom 9/bottom 12 player in the NHL. NAK will do anything the coaching staff asks with no complaints, and he’s happy he has support for the icing on the cake, “My family supports me. They were here last year with 9 games in the NHL. They saw this Summer how ready I was for camp, they are great really.”
We should draft more players like NAK!