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Rested Khabibulin back with Oilers
By
DEREK VAN DIEST, QMI Agency
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EDMONTON - Nikolai Khabibulin made a public appearance on Wednesday dispelling rumours he had picked up an injury and therefore had to miss two consecutive practices.
The Edmonton Oilers goaltender was simply taking advantage of a break in the schedule to get some rest.
It was good, we had a few days between games and it was good to get a few days off, said Khabibulin. I just wanted to get some rest and get everything back in order and start over.
Khabibulin had not been on the ice since backstopping the Oilers to a 4-1 win over the Colorado Avalanche on Friday.
The Oilers went with Devan Dubnyk Saturday in Calgary, then had goaltending coach Fredrick Chabot strap on the pads in practice Monday and Tuesday in place of Khabibulin.
It was a mutual thing between myself and the coaches to take some time off, Khabibulin said. I had a couple of good days of working out (in the gym), getting everything checked out and now going back to work.
Khabibulin has been great for the Oilers this season, posting a 10-6-3 record with 1.95 goals against average and .933 save percentage.
Hes expected to get the start against the Phoenix Coyotes on Thursday.
I feel good, I feel a little more regenerated and refreshed, Khabibulin said. Im excited to get back.
derek.vandiest@sunmedia.ca
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