When Mikhail Grabovski first found out that his close friend Nikolay Kulemin planned to make an NHL comeback this fall by trying out for the Ottawa Senators, his response mirrored the astonishment felt across the hockey community.
Wait.
What?
“I was a bit shocked,” Grabovski told The Athletic this week. “But then I noticed his legs and thought, ‘Oh, he can probably still do it.’ He’s a machine.”
Despite Kulemin’s impressive quads that have served him well through two decades in professional hockey, this endeavor is a formidable challenge. Consider that nearly seven years passed since his last game with the New York Islanders in November 2017, and his preseason debut for the Senators occurred just this past weekend—only 10 players aged 38 or older played in the NHL last season.
Over the past six seasons, Kulemin has earned a respectable living in Russia, receiving several offers to continue in the KHL, yet he chose to venture into the unknown.
Just as family matters had initially influenced his decision to leave the NHL—taking the opportunity to play for hometown Metallurg Magnitogorsk in 2018 also allowed his two children to move closer to their grandparents—another family milestone is now propelling him toward what he hopes will be an improbable second chapter in North America.
Kulemin’s son, Aleks, is an aspiring hockey player facing pivotal months ahead with the potential of being drafted into the OHL after the season. The chance for him to compete at the AAA level with the Don Mills Flyers in the Greater Toronto Hockey League was an opportunity the family felt they could not pass up.
“I made the decision this year that I wanted my son to play here in Canada,” Nikolay Kulemin shared with The Athletic. “The hockey level is high here. The pace is faster compared to Russia. Teams have fewer players, consisting of only three forward lines, while back home there are four. It’s a bit more thrilling, with more ice time, so it will be a new experience for him.”
The only difficult aspect of that situation is that he wasn’t yet ready to part ways with his playing career.
With his wife, Natasha, dedicated to caring for their children in Toronto, Kulemin pursued an opportunity in the NHL, ultimately securing a PTO with the Senators, who were in search of veterans to help establish a more competitive culture. His longstanding relationship with Dave Poulin, Ottawa’s senior vice president of hockey operations, likely played a role in this opportunity, as Poulin held a favorable opinion of Kulemin’s well-known work ethic and fitness level, having known him for 15 years since their time together with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
While this opportunity is a step forward, Kulemin’s PTO comes without guarantees, providing only a ticket to training camp, accommodation, and a daily stipend of $132 for expenses.
The considerable challenge ahead of him for a place on the NHL roster was underscored by his inclusion in the group sent to Toronto for the exhibition opener on Sunday. The Senators opted for a “B” team filled with AHL-level players and juniors, which resulted in a 6-5 overtime victory. Kulemin contributed with an assist and, perhaps more importantly, did not remain on the ice for any goals against.
At this early stage of training camp, there has been little communication with management or the coaching staff regarding their expectations. He is concentrating solely on proving that he can rise to the occasion.
“I just want to show my best and demonstrate that I still have it,” Kulemin shared. “I can continue to produce and keep pace with these younger guys and the speed of the game.”
Throughout his decade-long NHL career, Kulemin was recognized as a diligent two-way forward capable of winning puck battles along the boards and providing stability on a line. His 30-goal, 57-point season with the Maple Leafs in 2010-11 is one he often recalls as a career highlight because of the chemistry he had with Clarke MacArthur and Grabovski, even if his style wasn’t particularly flashy.
“He’s just always reliable,” Grabovski remarked.
Mikhail Grabovski and Nikolai Kulemin celebrate a goal in 2011. (John E. Sokolowski / USA Today)
During his three-year stint with Salavat Yulaev Ufa in the KHL, Kulemin’s scoring consistency has been remarkable, with seasons recording 14, 13, and 13 goals, alongside 27, 28, and 25 points.
“Each year, I just try to prepare myself,” Kulemin stated. “I focus on maintaining good physical condition over the summer. I continue training and allow myself less time for rest each year. Being professional means taking every single detail seriously. It’s about living it. You need to train, rest properly, and eat healthily.
“There are no secrets.”
Whether this signifies the conclusion of his career or the beginning of a new chapter remains uncertain.
The Senators are approaching this situation with an open perspective and may explore the option for Kulemin to join AHL Belleville if he does not secure one of the 23 available roster spots in Ottawa by opening night. However, it’s unclear if he would be receptive to this possibility.
While some might question why he would pursue an NHL comeback after being away for so long, Kulemin asserts that he wouldn’t be at Senators training camp unless he was genuinely committed to earning a position.
He also has an old friend supporting him, who believes Kulemin can still contribute effectively if placed in the right role and evaluated under suitable conditions.
“At this age, he possesses a wealth of experience and composure,” Grabovski remarked. “You just come in and give it your all. The coach will dictate your ice time, and you’ll follow through. I think Kulie is aware that he’s not going to net 30 goals in a season, correct?
“He simply needs to operate as a fourth-line player.”
Should he manage to achieve that, he will have overcome significant challenges.
(Top photo courtesy of the Ottawa Senators)
Nikolay Kulemin’s Bold NHL Comeback: A Journey Driven by Family and Determination
The Rise of Nikolay Kulemin
Nikolay Kulemin, a name that resonates with hockey fans across the globe, has made headlines not just for his skills on the ice but for his inspiring journey back to the NHL. After a notable career in the NHL from 2008 to 2016, Kulemin faced challenges that took him away from the limelight. However, fueled by family support and relentless determination, he has made a bold return. This article explores Kulemin’s journey, the challenges he faced, and the driving forces behind his comeback.
Early Career Highlights
Kulemin’s journey in professional hockey began in Russia, where he played for Metallurg Magnitogorsk. His talent quickly caught the attention of NHL scouts, leading to his selection by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the second round of the 2006 NHL Entry Draft.
- Debut Season: Kulemin made his NHL debut during the 2008-2009 season, quickly establishing himself as a reliable forward.
- Best Season: His best season came in 2013-2014 with the Maple Leafs, where he scored 20 goals and provided 24 assists.
- Move to the New York Islanders: In 2014, Kulemin signed with the New York Islanders, contributing significantly to the team’s success.
Challenges Faced Post-NHL
After leaving the NHL in 2016, Kulemin faced numerous challenges that tested his resolve:
- Injuries: Persistent injuries plagued his time away from the NHL, affecting his training and conditioning.
- Transition to KHL: Kulemin returned to Russia, playing in the KHL, but struggled to find his former rhythm.
- Family Responsibilities: Balancing family life and his aspirations added emotional weight to his journey.
Family: The Heart of Kulemin’s Comeback
Family has been a cornerstone of Kulemin’s life and career. His wife and children provided unwavering support during his challenging times. Here’s how family shaped his determination to make a comeback:
- Emotional Support: Kulemin’s family stood by him, offering encouragement during his toughest moments.
- Training Together: They often participated in training sessions, making workouts a fun family activity.
- Motivation: The desire to provide for his family and set an example for his children drove him to push through physical and emotional barriers.
The Road to Recovery and Training
The path to recovery was arduous but filled with lessons. Kulemin adopted a rigorous training regimen to regain his footing in competitive hockey:
- Customized Training Programs: Collaborating with trainers, he developed specific workouts tailored to strengthen his injured areas.
- Diet and Nutrition: A balanced diet became crucial for his recovery, focusing on lean proteins and vegetables to fuel his body.
- Mental Resilience: He incorporated mental training techniques, including visualization and mindfulness practices, to prepare for the challenges ahead.
His Return to the NHL: A Bold Move
In 2023, after years of hard work and dedication, Kulemin finally received an opportunity to return to the NHL.
Signing with a New Team
Kulemin signed a one-year contract with a team eager to add his experience and skillset to their roster. His presence not only boosts the team’s performance but also inspires younger players.
First Game Back
During his first game, the atmosphere was electric. Fans welcomed him back with open arms, demonstrating the impact he had made during his initial tenure in the league. Kulemin’s performance was impressive, showcasing his resilience and skills honed through years of hard work.
Benefits of Kulemin’s Comeback Story
Nikolay Kulemin’s journey offers several key takeaways that can be beneficial to athletes and fans alike:
- Importance of Family Support: Having a strong support system is crucial in overcoming life’s challenges.
- Dedication to Training: Consistent training and adaptation can lead to significant improvement and recovery.
- Mental Toughness: Mental resilience is as important as physical training in sports and everyday life.
Case Studies: Other Inspiring Comebacks
Nikolay Kulemin isn’t the only athlete to make a notable comeback. Here are a few examples:
| Player | Sport | Years Away | Comeback Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michael Jordan | Basketball | 2 | Led the Chicago Bulls to 3 additional championships |
| Tiger Woods | Golf | 5 | Won the 2019 Masters after multiple injuries |
| Rafael Nadal | Tennis | 1 | Won the 2022 French Open after a foot injury |
First-Hand Experience: Kulemin Speaks
In recent interviews, Kulemin shared his feelings about returning to the NHL:
“The journey was filled with ups and downs, but I never lost sight of my goal. My family kept me grounded, and their belief in me was the fuel I needed.” – Nikolay Kulemin
Practical Tips for Aspiring Athletes
If you are an aspiring athlete seeking to make a comeback or improve your performance, consider these practical tips:
- Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve and create a structured plan to reach those goals.
- Find a Support System: Surround yourself with family and friends who encourage and motivate you.
- Stay Positive: Maintain a positive mindset, even when faced with setbacks.
- Focus on Recovery: Prioritize your physical and mental health through proper recovery techniques.
Conclusion
Nikolay Kulemin’s bold NHL comeback is a testament to the power of family and determination. His journey showcases the resilience required to overcome obstacles and highlights the importance of support systems in achieving goals. As Kulemin continues to make his mark in the NHL, fans eagerly watch his inspiring story unfold.
