Ex-Bruin calls out Gary Bettman
Veteran Defenseman Anton Stralman Reflects on NHL Career and Decision to Return Home
Last offseason, Anton Stralman, who is set to celebrate his 37th birthday on August 1, signed a professional tryout with the Boston Bruins.
Despite his best efforts, Stralman's tenure in Boston was short-lived, as he appeared in just nine games between October 18 and November 25, failing to tally any points during that span.
However, recent reports from Mark Divver of the New England Hockey Journal indicate that the Swedish blueliner has found a new team to don his jersey. Stralman has signed with HV71 of the SHL, marking a return to his home country.
When asked about his decision to play in Sweden, Stralman did not hold back, expressing his frustration over being considered a capable defenseman but ultimately being forced out due to salary cap constraints.
In an interview with Sportskeeda, he shared his candid thoughts:
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«It's not a dream employer regarding how you are treated and all that; it is a cut-throat business," Stralman remarked. "Having four children and starting a family at the same time... it's not an easy task; it really isn't. It has been incredible how they pulled the heaviest load. Balancing it with playing in the NHL becomes an 'enemy' in the family, even though it allows us to experience cool things. It's a difficult dynamic."
He continued, shedding light on the realities of being an NHL player: "No, there is no glamor in it really. It's hard work and no glamor at all in being an NHL player."
With a career spanning 938 games, Stralman has laced up his skates for various teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, Columbus Blue Jackets, New York Rangers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Florida Panthers, Arizona Coyotes, and the Boston Bruins.
Throughout his journey, he has contributed 63 goals and assisted on 230, showcasing his valuable skills on the blue line.
As Stralman embarks on this new chapter of his career in Sweden, the NHL bids farewell to a seasoned defenseman who has left his mark on the league.
Previously on Bruins Insider
NHL players in this story
Anton Stralman| POLL |
17 JUILLET | 34 ANSWERS Ex-Bruin calls out Gary Bettman Do you think Stralman was deserving of more playing time? |
| yes | 13 | 38.2 % |
| no | 21 | 61.8 % |
| LIST OF POLLS |
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