After Zack Kassian returned to the NHL after completing the league’s Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program, the transition back into the rough-and-tumble major league seemed like it was going to be tough. It became even tougher when the Montreal Canadiens placed him on waivers, then worse when no one claimed him.
However, Kassian would find a home in the form of a second chance, when the Edmonton Oilers traded goaltender Ben Scrivens for him. After about a week in Bakersfield, Kassian grew more adjusted to the speed and toughness of the game, and got the call up to the Oilers.