Arthur Kaliyev Feels Kings' Free Agent Signings Led To Downfall In Los Angeles

Arthur Kaliyev practiced with the New York Rangers for the first time since getting claimed off waivers on Sunday.

The 23-year-old forward stayed on the ice long after practice was over as he continues to get accustomed to his new world.

The big question everybody wanted to know from Kaliyev was what exactly went wrong for him with the Los Angeles Kings.

Last season, Kaliyev was scratched for a number of games, which resulted in a trade request and he did not suit up for the Kings at all this year before he was ultimately waived by the team.

Kaliyev simply feels that he was stripped of his role after a couple of free agent signings.

“I think I started off there well,” Kaliyev said. “I think unfortunately a few guys they signed in the offseason maybe. The last year just didn’t work out, obviously not playing too much out there. My time was great there, but unfortunately it didn't end the way I wanted to.”

Now, the 2019 second-round pick gets a fresh start with the Rangers, and little do people know, coming to The Big Apple has a lot of meaning for him.

Growing up in Staten Island, Kaliyev used to watch and admire the Blueshirts, so coming back to New York to play for that very same team is an opportunity he thought was not even possible.

“I didn’t expect it honestly, but it’s kind of a dream come true,” Kaliyev said. “I grew up watching it and obviously living down here for a long time I didn't expect it, but I’m excited and a little bit nervous. It was awesome.”

His time in Los Angeles had clearly run its course. However, it’s undeniable that the young forward still has a lot of potential and he just needs to unlock it.

“I’ve been looking for it for quite a bit of time,” Kaliyev said about his desire for a fresh start. “It's going to be really exciting here. New fresh start and opportunity to prove yourself as a player and I’m really excited for this opportunity.”

In 188 total NHL games, Kaliyev has recorded 35 goals, 36 assists and 71 points while averaging 12:08 minutes.

Peter Laviolette confirmed that Kaliyev won’t be in the lineup on Tuesday night against the Dallas Stars, but fans should expect him to make his Rangers debut sooner rather than later.