Ekman-Larsson Reveals his Thoughts on being Bought Out and Plans for the Future
With four years remaining on his contract, defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson has been bought out by the Vancouver Canunks, making him a free agent come July 1st. Ekman-Larsson has spoken publicly on the ordeal for the first time in an interview in his home country of Sweden. The 31-year-old said he's eager to prove Vancouver wrong.
"I feel that I am good enough to play in the league still. That's what I'm passionate about: to disprove those who might think otherwise." Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Expressen.se
A Surpise
Ekman-Larsson admitted he did not see the buyout coming, but insisted he'll get through it.
"Since I had not expected this, I have some things to think about in the future. Some practical things for that matter, with accommodation and clothes that are left in Vancouver. But all that will work out. It's no big deal. I'm not the first person in the world to be bought out. I will manage it."
Revenge
Swedish media, of course, wanted to know if Ekman-Larsson would return home to play now that he doesn't have an NHL contract. Ekman-Larsson made it clear that's not in the cards, and he feels like "revenge" is in order.
"It is still a little exciting for myself to be a free agent on July 1st. I have never been. So of course it's tense and expectant and all the emotions you can think of really. But as I said before, I feel a great desire for revenge and want to show that they made the wrong decision. I want to show that I am a good player and I know what I can do."
The buyout will see Ekman-Larsson get close to $20 million from Vancouver to walk away. The blueliner can still contribute offensively, but has slowed considerably over the years and is viewed as a defensive liability.
Source: Expressen.se
| POLL | ||
JUIN 20 | 282 ANSWERS Ekman-Larsson Reveals his Thoughts on being Bought Out and Plans for the Future Would you want your team to sign OEL at a greatly reduced price? | ||
| Yes | 151 | 53.5 % |
| No | 90 | 31.9 % |
| Not sure | 41 | 14.5 % |
| LIST OF POLLS | ||
Top 10 latest hockey stories
