Red Wings defenseman Ben Chiarot missed a chunk of training camp and the preseason as his father passed away from cancer (per Bally Sports Detroit’s Ken Daniels) back in Kitchener, and Chiarot spoke with the media today about readjusting to the bump-and-grind of training camp and the exhibition season. DetroitRedWings.com’s Jonathan Mills took note of Chiarot’s remarks:
“I’ve felt pretty good in games,” Chiarot said after Friday’s practice at Little Caesars Arena’s BELFOR Training Center. “Obviously missing a lot of training camp doesn’t help as far as getting your legs under you or getting in game shape. But I feel like it’s coming along pretty well. I try to take good care of myself in the summer and be prepared.”
A 10-year NHL veteran, Chiarot still views the early part of training camp as extremely valuable.
“The first couple days of camp are usually pretty tough,” he said. “Heavy skating, get your legs and feet under you, getting used to battling and playing physical. Doing all the things in the summer you don’t necessarily do. That first week especially is important, but I’ve felt good so far.”
Chiarot said he feels more comfortable heading into his second season with the Red Wings.
“You’re not finding your way around the room, city and different personalities,” Chiarot said. “It just feels like coming home now.”
Continued; I don’t believe I’m saying this, but Chiarot has actually looked pretty darn good, with a few exceptions, over the course of his exhibition time with Detroit. He looks like he wants to rebound from last year with a more focused game, and he’s been simpler and more poised.
