EDMONTON — Everybody in the hockey world figured Kris Russell would eventually sign with the Calgary Flames.
Still an unrestricted free agent in September and even into early October, it’s no secret the record-setting shot-blocker was keen on a return to the Saddledome. It’s no secret, either, the Flames were trying to unload salary to squeeze the 29-year-old defenceman from Caroline onto their payroll.
Didn’t happen.
Just before the Thanksgiving long weekend, Russell joined the Edmonton Oilers.
Meanwhile, everybody figured that Kris Versteeg would be skating on the north side of the Battle of Alberta this winter.