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It’s safe to say that Patrick Kaleta understands his role – The winger will be the first to tell you he embraces the hard-hitting style that has become his trademark.
But Kaleta will also admit that there is room for improvement in his game, and when it comes to making some changes and increasing responsibility, his approach is always the same – at full-throttle.
“We’ve had talks, even yesterday morning, about how he wants me playing a full game,” Kaleta said of Head Coach Lindy Ruff. “He wants me to try to contribute a little bit more and focus on [different areas]… rather than my pinball style where I just run around and hit people.
That’s not to say Kaleta will shy away from the physical part of the game. The winger believes that is what got him to the NHL and what, ultimately, will keep him in it. What he wants to do, rather, is channel that intensity into other areas – specifically on special teams.
“I love the penalty kill,” Kaleta said. “I love blocking shots, which is a little bit out of the ordinary, but I take pride in doing it.”
But Kaleta will also admit that there is room for improvement in his game, and when it comes to making some changes and increasing responsibility, his approach is always the same – at full-throttle.
“We’ve had talks, even yesterday morning, about how he wants me playing a full game,” Kaleta said of Head Coach Lindy Ruff. “He wants me to try to contribute a little bit more and focus on [different areas]… rather than my pinball style where I just run around and hit people.
That’s not to say Kaleta will shy away from the physical part of the game. The winger believes that is what got him to the NHL and what, ultimately, will keep him in it. What he wants to do, rather, is channel that intensity into other areas – specifically on special teams.
“I love the penalty kill,” Kaleta said. “I love blocking shots, which is a little bit out of the ordinary, but I take pride in doing it.”
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