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Justin Abdelkader Recalls His First NHL Game

from Dana Wakiji of DetroitRedWings.com,

It was 10 years ago today that Justin Abdelkader played in his first NHL game, coincidentally against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

"I didn't know that. Gosh, crazy. I can't believe how fast time has gone," Abdelkader said. "It's one of those things guys always tell you to enjoy it because it goes so quick. Ten years, it feels like yesterday. I don't feel like it's been that long. Yeah, it was against the Blue Jackets, I remember it like it was yesterday actually. I couldn't get my contract signed so I played on a tryout the first game, which was different, but I got to sign a contract the next game because everything happened so quick, I think they had a few injuries.