By Chad Klassen

Kamloops’ Nash getting fresh start with Bruins

Jul 26, 2016 | 6:24 PM

KAMLOOPS — The NHL journey for Riley Nash has been up and down. But he’s getting a fresh start, with an Original Six team no less, signing on for two years with the Boston Bruins.

“As soon as I signed that piece of paper, I was so excited,” says Nash, who’s been with the Carolina Hurricanes organization the last five seasons. “I’m already looking forward to the season getting started. I’ve been there a couple times. I love the city of Boston. It’s an awesome sports city. They support all their teams.”

Nash was drafted 21st overall by Edmonton in 2007, although he never playing with the Oilers. He bounced between the NHL and AHL in his first couple seasons, but has established himself in the big leagues, mainly as a bottom-six forward. 

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But Nash is relishing the opportunity to play more meaningful minutes in Boston. 

“They’ve talked about just being able to play wherever if it’s centre or wing, penalty kill, maybe the odd power play. Not really expecting that, but just trying to fill a couple roles wherever they need me,” says Nash, who turned 27 in May. 

He’s going to a team that has been a winner the last five years, winning the Stanley Cup in 2011 and being runner-up to the Blackhawks in 2013. 

While the Bruins have missed the playoffs last two seasons, Nash recognizes they still have great players like Patrice Bergeron and Brad Marchand among others.

“Those are some pretty elite players there,” he says. “Marchand last year had a really good year. He was one of the top goal scorers in the league, and he’s a pest to boot.”

Riley also has a connection in Boston with fellow Kamloops native Kelly Olynyk, who’s like a cousin to him. 

“I’ve been texting him a little bit, probably end up staying there a couple nights before I find a place to live. He’ll show me around the city.”

Olynyk says “it’s pretty special. Every time Riley’s in Boston, I go to the game. We try to go for dinner, do something. It’s going to be cool to have him out there. Have a bit of home out there. I’ll definitely be going to more Bruins games.”