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Edmonton Oilers forward Zack Kassian was interviewed via the team’s web site on Monday.

On how the Oilers brought him back on a one-year contract, on why that’s exciting to him, and to what he’s looking forward this season:

“First and foremost, it’s exciting just to get the opportunity. I came in with a unique situation, and very thankful to be back another year. But at the same time, I’m coming in and I’m looking for this to be my last stop. I want to sign long-term here eventually. It’s one of those things where I’m coming into camp for the first time in awhile and taking my job very seriously, and I want to be the best player I can be.”

McKenzie/Kassian: "He's worked really hard" at turning his life around. "He'd be the first to tell you it's a daily battle." #Oilers — Chris Nichols (@NicholsOnHockey) May 20, 2016

McKenzie/Kassian: "Those who know him say he's in a really, really good spot – as good a spot as he's been in for a long, long time."#Oilers — Chris Nichols (@NicholsOnHockey) May 20, 2016

On the way the Oilers’ roster is taking shape:

“It’s exciting. We’re looking like a team. You know what I mean? We have a mixture of players and personalities. In order to win in this league and be successful, you need that. You need different personalities. You need different types of players. The acquisitions we’ve made I think show that. I think we’re really looking to gel as a team first and foremost. All the good teams seem to stick together and get along well off the ice, and I think we have the fit for that now. I think we’re looking forward to get going. Everyone I’ve talked to is very excited and can’t wait to get going.”

On if the mantra for the team is not being easy to play against:

“Yeah, definitely. Most definitely. I think teams are going to come in and they’re going to know we’re going to be a tough team to play against now. You’ve got a guy like Looch and Patty and myself and Hendo and Nurse. I think it’s a lot of players that can play on different lines and we can keep coming at you. That’s something we want to do and be able to do. We’re very excited to get the season rolling.”

On his approach to this season:

“Just be the player I am. I think this is the first year I’m going in – I feel like I’m 19 playing for the Windsor Spitfires or Peterborough Petes again. I think it’s one of those things. I’m so excited to start the season. The love for hockey is back. I sleep, eat, and breathe hockey now. And working out. I’m very excited to get this opportunity to get the ball rolling. No matter where I play, I’m going to give it my all.”

Source: Oilers’ site/ Transcript: Nichols

#Oilers' Zack Kassian is at roughly 212 pounds today, according to note on 630 CHED. Said he was 225-226 w/ #Canucks. — Chris Nichols (@NicholsOnHockey) July 25, 2016

Zack Kassian: ‘The love for hockey is back’