Now, as he prepares for his second professional season, Gridin is approaching things differently.
“I knew I had a spot before training camp started, but I still had to prove it,” he said. “And I guess I did, so it’s great to be on the opening roster.”
The difference, he says, isn't necessarily something that can be measured on a scoresheet.
It's understanding the game.
After spending time with the Wranglers and getting his first extended taste of NHL hockey, Gridin believes he has developed a better sense of the time and space available to him on the ice.
“I understand the game more now,” he explained. “I have more time than I thought with the puck. I can make better plays because of that and feel better about my game and feel more confident.”
For Gridin, the work never ends.
“I know I gotta fight for a role,” he stated.
Keeping a spot on the roster has been a common sentiment echoed by Head Coach Ryan Huska.
“Whoever you are, you still have to fight for a spot,” Gridin nodded.
That mentality will follow him into the opening of the regular season Thursday night at the Scotiabank Saddledome (CLICK FOR TICKETS).
Despite being the youngest player on Calgary's opening-night roster, Gridin doesn't see his age as something that should define his role within the group.
He sees himself as someone who is expected to contribute.
“I understand that I've gotta produce every night, pretty much,” the winger said. “I'm one of the offensive drivers of this team, but I don't feel like I'm the youngest, and I don't feel like that in the room either.”
There is a comfort level that comes with that.
Gridin has already established relationships within the Fdressing room, including with linemates Morgan Frost and Matt Coronato.
He has also built connections with veterans including Ryan Strome and Mikael Backlund.
The familiarity has helped make the transition into his second season a little more natural.
“Obviously Frosty and Matty, because they're my linemates,” Gridin said. “But I see everyone. I have a great relationship with everyone, Stromer, Beezer, even Backs.”
And while his offensive ability is what first catches the eye, Gridin knows the next stage of his development will require more than points.
The message from the coaching staff has been consistent: offence will come, but it starts with being reliable without the puck.
“They say the same thing, goals will come if I play well without the puck to start with,” Gridin said. “I gotta push myself to play well without the puck and not only focus on offence.”
