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Flames’ Hudler signs in Czech league, debuts hours later, scores twice

Talk about making a first impression.

Just hours after signing a lockout deal with HC Trinec of the Czech Extraliga, Calgary Flames forward Jiri Hudler scored two goals in a 6-4 win over Chomutov on Wednesday.

It’s an impressive return to form for Hudler. In October, he signed with KHL Lev Praha, only to see an abdominal muscle injury derail his campaign after just four games played.

Lev either cut Hudler or he asked to be freed from his contract so he could rest/recuperate and be ready for the start of the NHL season. Regardless, he’s back now.

On that note, it should be mentioned Hudler is still a member of the Flames in contract only. The 28-year-old inked a four-year, $16 million deal with Calgary this past summer but, because of the lockout, has yet to play a game for his new team.

Prior to signing with Calgary, Hudler had spent his entire NHL career with the Detroit Red Wings -- save a one-year sojourn to the KHL to play for Dynamo Moscow.