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Standing outside the San Jose Sharks dressing room with a ball cap on backwards and a massive grin on his face, Jeremy Roenick quickly becomes the centre of attention.
Approached by an endless stream of acquaintances from former coaches like Wayne Fleming to rink assistants, J.R. shares his newfound excitement with all who engage.
Yet, while the media and fans have long been fixated on one of the most colourful hockey personalities of our time, the 37-year-old insists he no longer relishes the spotlight.
"It's not about Jeremy Roenick at all," said the 19-year NHL veteran of his stirring rebirth. "I put it like I can jump into the tug of war and go right into the middle and help pull -- not the front and not the back. We have 24 guys trying to do something great.
"If I can help with that on or off the ice, that's great. It's not about being the quotemaster or being controversial, it's about being positive and helping this team win."
Convinced he was finished with the game after being ignored as part of rebuilding efforts in Los Angeles and Phoenix the last two seasons, Roenick announced his retirement this fall, only to re-emerge wearing teal following a surprise call from Sharks GM Doug Wilson.
After going four months without doing so much as a sit-up, he dedicated himself to making the most of a proper send-off by shedding 10 pounds.
"I'm really, really fortunate and blessed to have this opportunity," said a genuinely humbled Roenick before last night's tilt against the Flames.
"I know it sounds corny, but for someone who had a couple years like I had to have this chance ... I owe a lot to the San Jose Sharks."
Coach Ron Wilson has been so impressed by Roenick's efforts he bumped him from the fourth unit to Joe Thornton's top line Saturday, allowing the Boston native to score the game-winner and move within two of 500 for his career.
"It was always in the back of my mind there would be nights J.R. could step up," said Wilson. "He might not be as fast -- although he's still pretty quick -- but he can still think the game. You don't lose that. He's fit in nicely."
While he admits the thought of scoring 500 would mean the world to him, his attitude change stemmed more from being appreciated and having a chance to win his first Stanley Cup.
"I'm really enjoying my role whether I play six minutes, 15 minutes or he doesn't play me at all -- I really love coming to the rink every day," said Roenick, who has three goals in six outings. "I don't know if it's rejuvenated my career, but it has rejuvenated my excitement for the game. Whether I'm playing, cheerleading or giving helpful hints to guys, I'm coming to the rink happy and energized."
While a stint in broadcasting certainly awaits, the third-highest scoring American of all-time has got a few goals in mind first.
And when he scores them, the 500 celebration won't include a moonwalk.
"No glitz, no glamour, just go on about my business," he insists. "We'll celebrate later but now it's all about winning hockey games."