Chabot Returns Strong for Homestand Finale: ‘I Feel Good’
Thomas Chabot skated with the second defensive pair alongside Jordan Spence during Thursday morning practice. This came just over two weeks after he underwent surgery to repair a broken arm.
Fast-tracked recovery
Chabot moved from a non-contact jersey to a regular jersey on Tuesday and Wednesday. Those steps preceded his morning skate appearance and a decision to play Thursday night against the Florida Panthers.
Head coach Travis Green had earlier projected a four-to-eight-week recovery window. Chabot’s return beat that timeline by a wide margin. He credited the team’s medical staff and steady work for the quick comeback.
Player perspective
Chabot said the progressive contact reps felt good and built his confidence. He summed up his mood with a brief line, “I Feel Good”.
He also praised teammates who covered for injured players during his absence.
Locker-room response
Brady Tkachuk highlighted Chabot’s preparation and work ethic. He called Chabot a major character in the dressing room and a close friend.
Tkachuk added that Chabot’s presence lifts the team’s energy. His return comes at an important stretch of the season.
Lineup impact and depth play
Chabot will replace Cam Crotty in the lineup for Thursday night. Several depth defenders had filled roles amid multiple absences.
- Jake Sanderson
- Tyler Kleven
- Nick Jensen
- Dennis Gilbert
Chabot praised the “next man up” mentality and singled out Linus Ullmark for excellent play while he was sidelined.
Coach’s view
Green said he could not recall another player returning that quickly from this type of injury. He noted the timing matters with a playoff push underway.
Report by Filmogaz.com.
