Paddywagon’s Davos return for career conclusion

[DMaximus 1,046]

Defenseman Charlie Paddywagon’s career came full circle when he was traded from Calgary to HC Davos during the season 73 off-season. Paddywagon was drafted by HC Davos 6^th overall in Season 66. 3 seasons later, he was traded to Calgary where he spent 4 seasons. His return to Davos has been highly anticipated by fans throughout the city. We caught up with Charlie shortly after he landed in Davos to get his thoughts on a variety of topics.

 

On his time in Calgary:

It was a really great run we had with Calgary. It’s always disappointing to lose in the finals, especially twice in 3 seasons. I really thought we were going to win it all last season, it hurt to lose. But getting that close has only increased my desire to win it all this season.

 

On the GM change in Calgary:

Over my time there, it was interesting to experience a change in management. There was a noticeable difference in the team’s mentality once Jubis took a leadership role. Even before officially being named GM, Jubis was able to keep a talented team working together, invested and unified in the same goal. You need to look no further than resigning Lahtinen as proof of that. Credit to him.

 

On being traded to Davos:

Once expansion was announced, I had a feeling Calgary wouldn’t be able to keep me. Jubis talked to me and let me know not only would I go unprotected for the expansion draft, but they also might not be able to pay my salary due to the new cap restrictions. I was really excited to find out I was traded to Davos. I love Davos. It’s a fantastic city and their fans love the team. Although the leadership has changed since I was last here, there were still a lot of friendly, familiar faces on the staff. It feels almost like I never left.

 

On how he left Davos:

A lot of people have wondered why I re-signed with Davos before season 69. when I was a free agent. I had the option to leave and go anywhere, but I liked the team so much and wanted to show my appreciation to them for going out on a limb and drafting me in the 1^st round. I feel I did that by signing with them rather than leaving them with nothing. I don’t mind that I was traded almost immediately after I re-signed. I think the assets they received from that trade has put them in a place for me to return now and win a cup. Plus, in hindsight, it seemed like a good time to leave Davos.

 

On new management in Davos:

This is probably the biggest difference from when I was last here. During my first stint, the GM had somewhat of a persecution complex, he thought everyone was out to get him. Contrast that with the new GM who built a literal persecution complex. A building with the sole purpose of allowing Gustav to berate and mistreat dissidents.

 

On the Davos roster:

We have a great team here. There’s some great veteran leadership with Jet Jaguar and Jerry Garcia. We have the last 2 rookies of the year in SS Hornet and Roque Davis. It’s a really good mix of youth and experience. I can see the team growing close, gelling more and more. It’s shaping up to be a great year.

 

Predictions for this season:

I’m not one to make predictions, too many things can change and we’ve seen that the VHL is more competitive now than ever. Plus, the shakeup of all the new expansion teams adds a wrinkle that means this season is up for grabs. I just hope that we’re there at the end, raising the cup.