On not making opening day:
Trying to stay positive and trying to enjoy his 22nd birthday on Sunday afternoon, Sven Baertschi did not mask his disappointment and dejection.
“It’s frustrating,” said the Calgary Flames’ first-round selection in 2011, one of three players bound for the American Hockey League’s Adirondack Flames. “It’s something you don’t want to hear at all. All the work I’ve put into this summer and training camp and everything.
“I felt like I had my best camp as a Calgary Flame and it’s frustrating.”
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And, sure enough, the Flames sent Baertschi along with goaltender Joni Ortio and right winger Josh Jooris to the Adirondack Flames of the American Hockey League.
Jooris, who left Union College to sign with the Flames last year, earned his extended stay and was a pleasant surprise.
“I did everything I wanted to accomplish here,” said the 24-year-old who produced two goals in his final pre-season game Thursday against the Jets. “I learned a lot and will take a lot away from it.
“It’s a little disappointing, but at the same time, it’s a positive experience and I think it just makes me hungrier being this close.”
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