The Calgary Flames assigned defenseman Oliver Kylington, who hasn't played since the 2022 playoffs for personal reasons, to the AHL for a conditioning stint on Thursday.

Kylington missed the entire 2022-23 campaign, as well as the start of the current season, to focus on his mental health. He said he's in a better place now as he seeks to resume his NHL career.

"I feel I'm in a good place with my mental health and ready to take another step forward," he said in a statement. "Returning to Calgary has been the right decision. I've felt tremendous commitment from Flames ownership, management, and my teammates, and I am appreciative of the support and resources made available to me. I also thank my family, friends, and the fans for their encouragement. I'm looking forward to getting on the ice in a team environment and back to my everyday life. I have missed it very much."

Kylington posted career highs in games played (73), points (31), and average ice time (18:10) in 2021-22 before taking time off.

He was a second-round pick of the Flames in 2015 and has made 168 career appearances for the club.

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