Catching Up With: Eric Nystrom

Eric Nystrom was taken in the first round of the 2002 NHL draft, tenth overall, by Calgary Flames. He made a quick debut in 2005-06, playing just two games. After a shoulder injury in a 2006-07 preseason game set him back, he didn't return to the NHL until the year after, playing half of the 2007-08 season with Calgary. He's been an NHL regular ever since.

His career stats show steady progress, outside of a dip in points during his single season in Minnesota. But even with the Wild his ice time has increased, as he's gained the confidence of each coach he's played for.

Nystrom was born Valentine's Day of 1983, the year his father Bob won the last of four straight Stalney Cups with the New York Islanders. I was able to ask the younger Nystrom about the start of his career, his family lineage and how he sees himself as a player.